Benzyl Acetate

Benzyl Acetate / CAS#140-11-4

Benzyl Acetate is an organic ester with a sweet, fruity aroma that is reminiscent of jasmine and ripe pears. Naturally found in essential oils like jasmine, ylang-ylang, and hyacinth, benzyl acetate is widely used in the fragrance and flavor industries due to its pleasant scent and versatility. This compound adds a floral, fruity, and slightly balsamic quality to fragrances, enhancing the complexity and appeal of various perfumes and personal care products.

Key Characteristics

• Chemical Formula: $C_9H_{10}O_2$
• CAS Number: 140-11-4
• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
• Odor Profile: Sweet, fruity, floral, with a jasmine-like quality

Uses and Applications

1. Fragrance Industry: Benzyl Acetate is a common ingredient in perfumes, colognes, and body sprays, providing a sweet, floral top or heart note. It is especially valued in floral compositions and is often blended with other floral and fruity notes to create sophisticated scents. Its characteristic jasmine scent makes it ideal for enhancing perfumes with a romantic, delicate touch.

2. Flavoring Agent: With a natural fruity flavor, benzyl acetate is also used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages. It imparts a mild, fruity sweetness to candies, baked goods, and beverages, although it’s typically used in low concentrations due to its potency.

3. Personal Care Products: Benzyl Acetate’s light, pleasant fragrance makes it a popular ingredient in personal care items, such as lotions, soaps, and shampoos. It adds a fresh, floral scent to these products, enhancing their sensory appeal and leaving a lasting fragrance on the skin or hair.

4. Industrial Applications: In addition to its role in fragrances and flavors, benzyl acetate is used as a solvent in various industrial applications, such as in plastics, resins, and lacquers.

Safety and Precautions

• Skin Sensitivity: Benzyl Acetate can cause skin irritation in some individuals, so it’s often used in diluted form, especially in skincare and personal care products.
• Inhalation: Prolonged inhalation of concentrated benzyl acetate vapors should be avoided, as it may cause respiratory discomfort.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Storage Conditions: Keep in a sealed container in a well-ventilated, cool area.
• Shelf Life: Approximately 2 years when stored under proper conditions.

Benzyl Acetate is cherished for its ability to bring a sweet, floral, and fruity aroma to a wide range of applications, from perfumes and cosmetics to food flavorings. Its gentle jasmine scent and versatility make it a valuable ingredient for adding depth, sweetness, and a hint of elegance to fragrance compositions.