Woody 3(1)

Ambroxan

Ambroxan is a high-impact amber–woody aroma chemical renowned for its exceptional fixative power, diffusion, and longevity. Originally developed as a sustainable alternative to natural ambergris, Ambroxan has become a cornerstone molecule in modern fine fragrance and functional perfumery.

Type

Woody / Amber

Ambroxan delivers a clean, warm, mineral-amber woody profile with subtle musky and balsamic undertones. It enhances depth without heaviness and provides a modern, elegant backbone to fragrance compositions.

Acquisition Methods

Chemical synthesis

Ambroxol is typically synthesized via oxidation and cyclization reactions of sarcopentyl alcohol or synthetic intermediates, historically derived from natural sclareol (from clary sage), though modern industrial production increasingly relies on fully synthetic routes to ensure cost stability, consistency, and scalability.

Basic Information

English Name Ambroxan
Common Industry Names Ambroxide, Ambrox
Chemical Class Ambergris-type terpenoid
Molecular Formula C₁₆H₂₈O
Molecular Weight 236.39 g/mol
CAS Number 6790-58-5
Appearance White to off-white crystalline solid

Technical Data

Boiling Point > 300 °C (decomposes)
Melting Point 75–78 °C
Flash Point > 100 °C
Density (20 °C) ~1.02 g/cm³
Solubility Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohols and fragrance solvents
Stability Excellent thermal, oxidative, and formulation stability

 

Chemical Structure

C₁₆H₂₈O
48.Ambroxan

Fragrance Characteristics

Odor Description Amber, woody, dry, slightly musky, mineral
Note Position Base note
Common Pairings Citrus (bergamot, grapefruit), Floral musks (hedione, muguet bases), Woods (Iso E Super, Cedramber, Sandalwood molecules)
Application Areas Fine fragrance (EDT, EDP, extrait), Functional fragrances (detergents, fabric care), Personal care (shampoos, body washes)

 

Safety and Compliance

IFRA Status Approved for use under IFRA guidelines
Formulation Stability Highly stable across pH ranges and product matrices
Allergen Risk Low sensitization risk; widely accepted in global formulations

 

Application Highlights

  • Exceptional Fixative Efficiency: Extends fragrance longevity without increasing dosage
  • Cost-to-Performance Advantage: Replaces animal-derived ambergris at industrial scale
  • Formulation Flexibility: Compatible with both fine fragrance and functional bases
  • Market-Proven Molecule: Recognizable “modern luxury” signature in global bestsellers
  • Regulatory-Friendly: Long-term compliance security across major markets

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