3-Phenylpropionic acid (CAS 501-52-0) — Sweet Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
3-Phenylpropionic acid
CAS 501-52-0
What Is 3-Phenylpropionic acid?
3-Phenylpropionic acid is a synthetic fragrance ingredient with a honey-like, floral scent. It’s found in perfumes and some flavored products. This molecule adds warmth and depth to fragrances, acting as a subtle fixative that helps other notes last longer on the skin.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does 3-Phenylpropionic acid Smell Like?
3-Phenylpropionic acid opens with a sweet, honeyed character reminiscent of beeswax and dried flowers. As it evolves, it reveals a subtle cinnamon-like warmth with undertones of vanilla and coumarin. The dry-down is soft and powdery, blending seamlessly with woody notes. Its tenacity makes it valuable as a base note modifier, adding persistence to floral compositions without overpowering them.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a honeyed counterpoint to the lavender top notes, adding warmth and persistence to this classic fougère structure.
Contributes to the oriental base with its sweet-balsamic character, complementing the vanilla and amber accord.
Enhances the tobacco-like sweetness in this vintage floral, acting as a bridge between floral and woody notes.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
3-Phenylpropionic acid (hydrocinnamic acid) is an aromatic carboxylic acid. While found in small amounts in some plants like cinnamon and honey, commercial production is typically through chemical synthesis. Common routes include the oxidation of cinnamyl alcohol or hydrogenation of cinnamic acid. The molecule lacks chirality centers, making stereochemistry irrelevant for its olfactory properties.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 280 °C |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 48-50 °C |
| Density | 1.071 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Base note modifier |
| Soap | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Adds persistence |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in trace amounts to enhance sweetness without becoming cloying.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More honey-like with less cinnamon character, useful when a cleaner sweetness is desired.
For brighter, more aromatic effects with similar persistence.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
Considered safe for current fragrance use levels by RIFM.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, production avoids agricultural impacts. Modern synthesis routes aim for atom economy and reduced solvent use. Being a simple aromatic compound, it biodegrades readily under normal environmental conditions.
Explore 3-Phenylpropionic acid
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References
- Arctander, S. (1969). Perfume and Flavor Chemicals. Montclair.
- Bauer, K. et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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