Allyl Phenoxy Acetate started to draw attention after the chemical industry ramped up the search for versatile esters around the mid-twentieth century. The esterification techniques of that era set the groundwork, focusing on combining phenoxyacetic acid with allyl alcohol. Early patents pitched this compound not only for its fragrance but also for its functional uses in specialty coatings and polymers. As synthetic routes grew cleaner and yields improved, demand began to spread outwards from Europe and the United States, following waves of industrial applications and expanding lab-scale batches to larger production. During the 1970s, regulatory pressures on esters with hazardous profiles steered researchers toward compounds like Allyl Phenoxy Acetate, which displayed interesting chemical reactivity without raising as many safety flags.
You mostly run into Allyl Phenoxy Acetate in industries that value both its subtle scent and chemical functionality. Often listed as a building block in perfumery, it shows up under trade names tied to specialty ingredients in flavors and personal care. The compound surfaces in fragrance formulas because the allyl and phenoxy groups can lighten and sweeten the overall composition, blending especially well with floral and fruity top notes. At the same time, its structural strengths encourage use in plasticizers and coatings, helping resins keep flexibility and gloss, which makes it a tool for chemists seeking more than just good smell.
With a clear, almost colorless liquid form at room temperature, Allyl Phenoxy Acetate comes with a mild, sweet odor hinting at its floral punch. The boiling point hovers around 155-160°C at reduced pressure, which lets it fit in temperature-sensitive reactions. Its density sits close to 1.1 g/cm3, giving stability in liquid formulations. Solubility stays higher in fats and oils compared to water, thanks to the aromatic and ester groups. Chemically, the molecule resists hydrolysis at neutral pH but shows more reactivity in alkaline conditions, and the presence of the allyl moiety invites addition reactions in the hands of a skilled synthetic chemist.
Technical datasheets pinpoint purity above 98%, monitored by GC retention time, with maximum water content usually below 0.5%. Refractive index lands near 1.51–1.52, helping quality control distinguish genuine stock. Commercial labels must display UN numbers and precautionary icons for flammable liquids in many regions. Batch numbers, manufacturer addresses, and hazard statements—ranging from skin and eye irritation to environmental persistence—are common on secondary packaging. Countries like the US and Germany enforce reporting under chemical inventory laws, so shipping documents detail weights, concentrations, and intended industrial purposes.
Producers synthesize Allyl Phenoxy Acetate through esterification. A typical route stirs phenoxyacetic acid with allyl alcohol in the presence of acid catalysts such as sulfuric acid or p-toluenesulfonic acid. Removing water forms a more complete ester bond, often using Dean-Stark traps in larger vessels. Some facilities opt for base-catalyzed methods, swapping strong acids for sodium alkoxides, especially when mild conditions matter for minimizing by-products. After crude distillation, washing and re-distillation refine the product, yielding a clear liquid ready for downstream use. Modern facilities automate much of this, monitoring reaction temperature and acidity to avoid runaway polymerization.
The allyl group on this molecule opens routes for chemical modification. Direct nucleophilic substitution using thiols, amines, or activated halides yields interesting derivatives for both fragrance and specialty chemical research. Under controlled polymerization, it anchors into backbone structures of acrylic and vinyl copolymers, lending flexibility and improved surface properties. The compound withstands mild acidic and basic conditions, although stronger bases will hydrolyze the ester link, liberating phenoxyacetic acid—an active intermediate in herbicide production. Oxidation of the allyl group can result in epoxides, broadening its value as a synthetic intermediate for pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries.
You may see Allyl Phenoxy Acetate labeled as 2-Phenoxyacetic Acid Allyl Ester, or by trade names such as “Allyl Phenoxylate” and “Allyl 2-Phenoxyacetate.” Catalog references sometimes use less common synonyms reflecting old nomenclature trends, so I keep CAS numbers handy when cross-referencing. In perfumery catalogs, this chemical lands under the broader umbrella of “phenoxyacetate esters,” which has on occasion muddled regulatory filings if the exact structure isn’t singled out.
Practical safe handling starts with good ventilation—fume hoods or filtered air systems—since the vapor can irritate eyes and mucous membranes. Skin protection with nitrile gloves and chemical goggles reduces risk, especially if the batch is large or the material is hot. Spills require absorbent pads and prompt waste disposal in labeled, sealed containers. Fire safety guidelines treat this substance as a combustible liquid: grounding containers while transferring prevents static sparks. For storage, manufacturers prescribe tightly sealed, dark glass or lined metal to avoid decomposition and accidental polymerization from light or heat exposure. Documentation for hazard communication stays up to date, in line with GHS labeling rules. Emergency procedures include readily available eyewash stations and spill kits; teams working with the material train in both proper handling and accident response.
Allyl Phenoxy Acetate stands out in fragrance manufacturing, where subtle, sweet aromas matter. It goes into synthetic blends to mimic or enhance natural plant scents, easing shortages or inconsistencies in harvested oils. In plastics, it functions as a co-monomer with acrylic esters, tweaking both mechanical and sensory properties for coatings on household goods and electronics. You also see it in research exploring new surfactants and dispersants, thanks to its balance of hydrophobic and hydrophilic structure. Further expansion into cosmetics and home care taps into its low persistence odor, supporting claims for hypoallergenic formulations. Some soil and water testing labs trial the chemical for recovery standards, using its robust GC response to control quality in trace analysis.
Scientists working in academia and industry investigate new uses for Allyl Phenoxy Acetate, looking for green synthesis routes that avoid heavy metal catalysts and strongly acidic waste streams. More research explores replacing traditional solvents in the synthesis with ionic liquids or even room temperature mechanochemical techniques, cutting both cost and energy use. Analytical labs run longitudinal studies on product shelf life, tracing any by-products that emerge over time, and refining stabilizers added to commercial batches. In polymer chemistry, teams test new crosslinkers based on the allyl group, designing coatings with enhanced self-healing or anti-fog properties. Developers in fragrance and flavor sectors continually study the chemical’s threshold detection limits in consumer panels, linking structure to perceived pleasantness and irritation.
The available toxicology points to moderate irritation when the pure liquid contacts skin or eyes, but no strong mutagenic or carcinogenic signals in short-term studies with standard lab mammals. Chronic exposure data stays limited, with most published work focusing on workplace air levels and accidental spill response. Occupational exposure standards reflect conservative levels, in part because breakdown byproducts under heat could pose a higher hazard. Biodegradation outside of lab conditions moves slowly, inviting more thorough research into aquatic impact. Regulatory agencies in the EU and US monitor ongoing data; meanwhile, responsible producers support monitoring vapor and individual exposure during both synthesis and downstream use.
Efforts continue to shift Allyl Phenoxy Acetate production toward safer, lower-impact processes. As consumers lean into “clean label” products, fragrance houses push for raw materials that trace back to well-documented, low-footprint syntheses. The molecule’s ready reactivity attracts new interest in smart polymers—especially coatings that release fragrance more slowly or mimic natural biodegradation. Researchers with green chemistry expertise look for even milder routes or bio-based starting materials, aiming to reduce both waste and dependence on petrochemicals. Current focus areas stretch from improved catalysis in esterification to exploring microencapsulation strategies, hoping to unlock longer-lasting scent and lower overall use per product. With broad utility, knowledge, and tightening rules, the future will demand teamwork across suppliers, researchers, and regulators to guide the responsible integration of this versatile chemical.
Step into a cosmetics store and a wall of perfumes greets you. Most people don’t ask what goes into these fragrances. Dive into the world behind the pretty bottles, and names like Allyl Phenoxy Acetate pop up. This isn’t some mystery concoction—it’s one of the backbone ingredients in creating fresh, floral scents that last.
I remember trying on a perfume sample and wondering what gave it that crisp apple-blossom smell, something that lingered lightly without going straight to my head. Years later, I found out that Allyl Phenoxy Acetate helped bring this fragrance to life. Chemists discovered its gentle, slightly sweet aroma decades ago, and it’s now a staple for people who want subtle, wearable elegance in everything from body sprays to household air fresheners.
Perfume formulas don’t just rely on natural extracts because high-quality scents can be hard to harvest or don’t last long enough. Allyl Phenoxy Acetate gives perfumers a steady, reliable tool to bring out fruity and floral notes. Its profile reminds many of green apples—and you’ll notice it’s paired with other compounds to strike a balance between sharp and soft. Fragrance makers can blend it smoothly without distracting the nose with heaviness or bitterness.
Science backs up its role. Researchers classify it as a “middle note,” so it bridges lighter top notes with deep bases, creating scents that evolve over time instead of fading quickly. The compound’s safety has turned it into a quiet workhorse; regulated tightly by authorities in the US and Europe, it passes skin tests before going near bottles on store shelves.
Walk into any freshly cleaned room, and you might not give much thought to the spray or plug-in that made it smell so good. Allyl Phenoxy Acetate finds its way into air fresheners, detergents, scented candles, and sometimes even personal care items like shampoos and lotions. Maybe you think a fresh scent equals “clean,” and product makers rely on that reaction. This ingredient helps create feelings of comfort and wellbeing right down to your laundry detergent or fabric softener.
Food scientists have also looked at its flavoring potential, but regulations keep its use in food products much tighter than in perfumes. The real power lies in environments where aroma influences mood—a favorite cologne, a favorite candle, or even the baby wipes parents reach for every day. I’ve used air fresheners that list “apple blossom” or “orchid” as notes, all thanks in part to Allyl Phenoxy Acetate.
Government safety bodies study ingredients like this closely. Most health experts agree that used at levels set by regulators, it doesn’t cause harm to skin or lungs. Still, no one should splash undiluted chemicals straight on their skin—even “safe” ones deserve respect. Trouble sometimes starts when folks ignore warnings, trying DIY mixes or boosting concentrations for extra impact.
The push for greener, more sustainable fragrance compounds has changed how labs source raw materials and manage byproducts. Companies now track each step—where the compound comes from, how waste is handled, and which alternatives might reduce environmental footprints. This is a serious matter for consumers and brands who care about what goes into products and how those choices impact the world.
Allyl Phenoxy Acetate won’t show up in front-page headlines, but in homes and on wrists, its presence lingers. Knowing what’s inside everyday products arms people with better choices, and an ingredient’s story deserves attention, even if the bottle hides it behind “fragrance.”
Allyl phenoxy acetate comes up a lot in the world of fragrances and cosmetics. This ingredient adds a sweet, floral aroma that helps products stand out. If you have ever enjoyed the gentle scent in a body lotion or perfume, you might have crossed paths with it. The industry taps into this compound because it delivers both lasting power and a smooth scent profile. Even with that popularity, people often wonder about what’s actually in the bottle, and whether these ingredients are harmless for skin and overall health.
I’ve worked with personal care products enough to know that not all sweet-smelling compounds are as gentle as they seem. So I pay attention when scientists study new or lesser-known substances like allyl phenoxy acetate. Here’s what the research and regulatory watchdogs tell us:
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, a panel that looks at these chemicals for skin contact, points out that allyl phenoxy acetate doesn’t hit the red-flag mark in standard toxicity tests. Tests with high doses on animals haven’t led to persistent health effects. The European Chemicals Agency catalogs the compound with low acute toxicity and little irritation potential when used at the common concentrations in personal care. I checked the World Health Organization database and it does not flag this one for carcinogenic or mutagenic warning either. Allergic reactions such as skin sensitization do not pop up in usual test groups. That gives consumers some reassurance, especially compared with other more notorious fragrance chemicals.
That said, working in a pharmacy has shown me real people sometimes react in ways science cannot always predict. People with sensitive skin can still develop rashes with exposure to seemingly safe ingredients. This does not always come up in lab tests, especially the ones done only on healthy volunteers. Long-term or repeated exposure could push skin over the edge, especially for those with eczema or fragrance allergies. No single panel, no matter how careful, can account for every skin type and health condition. Since 2020, more consumers have started patch-testing new lotions or perfumes at home, simply dabbing a sample on their arm for a few days before wider use, to check for redness or itching. I suggest anyone with concerns do the same with products containing any novel fragrance compound.
Another issue circles back to how companies list their ingredients. The catch-all phrase "fragrance" on a label often covers a long list of individual chemicals, including allyl phenoxy acetate, without naming them. This keeps consumers in the dark about what they’re actually putting on their bodies. Good labeling lets people make more informed choices, particularly those aiming to avoid certain ingredients for health reasons. It might help if regulators pushed companies to spell out the top ten or so fragrance compounds in each product.
The push for safer, skin-friendly cosmetics has sped up in the last decade. Cosmetic chemists who value transparency and safety keep tracking the skin’s reaction to common scent compounds and look for ways to blend in safe, hypoallergenic alternatives. Brands who want to earn and maintain trust show their ingredient lists in detail and openly share the scientific support for their safety claims. In-store testers, clear sample policies, and honest communication on websites help bridge the knowledge gap.
People today have more tools to check what’s inside their personal products. Scan that label, dig for full ingredient lists online, and reach out to brands who will answer questions. If irritation happens, switch to fragrance-free or hypoallergenic choices. Ingredient transparency and ongoing research together create more peace of mind, so consumers can enjoy the products they love without unexpected side effects.
Allyl phenoxy acetate draws attention in both fragrance chemistry and industrial applications. Its chemical formula is C11H12O3. At its core, the molecule showcases a familiar backbone: the phenoxy group connects to the acetate chain, and an allyl group brings that distinctive, slightly spicy character that often ends up in perfumes and flavor formulations.
On the molecular level, the structure features a benzene ring—this six-carbon ring comes with a single oxygen atom attached, creating what chemists call a phenoxy group. Linking through an oxygen, the acetate section shows up as -CH2COO-, essentially connecting the aromatic ring and ester function. Then, on top of all this, the allyl group (—CH2CH=CH2) attaches through an oxygen, forming an ether bridge with the benzene ring. The whole configuration contributes not only to molecular stability but to the molecule's compatibility with other ingredients in a mixture. This arrangement translates to real versatility in product design.
Every time I pick up a fragrance bottle promising green, fresh, or slightly spicy notes, the chances climb that allyl phenoxy acetate plays a part. Fragrance chemists appreciate this compound for more than just its scent—the molecule resists breakdown in common blends, blending smoothly with alcohol and oils. The ester bond in the molecule’s backbone helps lock in aroma against evaporation, offering consistency to both affordable colognes and luxury perfumes.
Outside the perfumery, the structure lets allyl phenoxy acetate find work in flavors, especially in fruity or herbal profiles. Stability comes from that phenoxy ether bond, resisting hydrolysis and oxidation—which explains why some flavorists pick it over less robust ester options. The aromatic ring stands up to both heat and light, so the end product lasts longer on the shelf and under various storage conditions.
Chemistry doesn’t happen in a vacuum. As the molecule finds broader use, its interaction with people and the environment matters. Safety evaluations often rely on understanding the detailed molecular structure—esters and ethers sometimes break down into skin sensitizers or allergens over time. Regulatory agencies, including those in the EU and the US, closely monitor these breakdown products. Data from IFRA (International Fragrance Association) steer how the material finds its way into end products. Agencies adjust allowed concentrations based on scientific findings, setting limits that keep products both effective and safe for repeated use.
Disposal adds another layer of consideration. The structure, while stable in perfumes and flavors, doesn’t break down easily in nature. This persistence prompts research into greener chemistry, searching for structural analogues that deliver a similar scent or flavor with reduced impact if they leak into waterways or soil. Efforts to design, synthesize, and use biodegradable perfumery bases continue to grow, nudged forward by worries about persistence and bioaccumulation.
Diving into the fine points of allyl phenoxy acetate means looking past formulas on the page. Each connection—carbon to oxygen, ring to sidechain—brings a concrete benefit or risk. Staying current on research, keeping an open line with regulatory agencies, and listening to consumer feedback all shape how chemists use this molecule. Chemical knowledge doesn’t just keep the formula accurate; it influences how safe, sustainable, and satisfying our daily products can be.
Allyl Phenoxy Acetate pops up in places as different as fine fragrances and chemical labs. Its sweet, floral scent hints at its use in perfumery, but the real story sits in how people handle and store the stuff. Many see a drum marked with a chemical name and assume the warehouse crew can just tuck it on a shelf. My own years in industrial safety taught me that simple oversight can spark headaches or, in worst cases, heavy incidents. Storage instructions matter, and Allyl Phenoxy Acetate delivers a good case study.
At room temperature, Allyl Phenoxy Acetate sits as a liquid with a noticeable fragrance. It’s easy to forget its flammable side. Workers keep the product out of direct sunlight and far from open flames or electrical sparks. I’ve seen fire risks rise in facilities ignoring these details—the smell might draw people in, but one spill near a hot motor could spark more than alarm. Practically, a ventilated storeroom away from high-traffic energy sources adds a strong layer of safety.
Chemical compatibility still makes seasoned workers double-check labels and material data. Companies stick with glass, stainless steel, or high-grade plastic containers rated to withstand the compound’s mild reactivity. No one in the business wants to clean up after a plastic drum dissolves. I’ve learned to scrutinize every drum for punctures or swelling and urge teams to keep lids sealed tight, even for quick jobs. Those who skip this habit often deal with costly evaporation losses or contamination risks.
Humidity creeps into warehouses more stealthily than fire, but the impact stacks up. Allyl Phenoxy Acetate attracts water and degrades with prolonged air exposure, cutting shelf life and shifting product quality. Using desiccants in storage spaces, rotating stock, and securing drums with tamper-proof seals go from “nice ideas” to regular routines. I grew to appreciate this discipline while working alongside chemists who lost entire batches to moisture shortcuts.
Some call personal protective equipment overkill for fragrant chemicals. A light splash feels harmless until skin starts tingling, or vapors cause throat irritation. Nitrile gloves, goggles, and a ventilation hood do more than satisfy regulations—they prevent the everyday mishaps that sour a workplace. I’ve worn my share of gear and seen colleagues regret skipping it “just to pour a quick sample.” Safety habits stick best with visible commitment, not reminders in dusty manuals.
Leaks and spills don’t just make the floor slippery. Allyl Phenoxy Acetate spreads its scent quickly but can irritate eyes and lungs if left pooling. Absorbent pads, chemical-rated waste bins, and immediate wipe-downs become norms in every plant that values health over speed. Emergency plans, practiced regularly, reinforce confidence when real messes happen. In my experience, routine readiness cuts both risks and cleanup delay.
New hires catch storage habits from daily cues more than training videos. Open conversations about close calls, product quirks, and smart storage help teams own the standard. Workers remember stories about a batch gone bad or an avoided near-accident more than checklists. Leaders who roll up their sleeves during audits set a standard no written protocol can match.
Allyl Phenoxy Acetate, like many chemicals, rewards solid habits over shortcuts. My years with hands-on teams proved that every sealed drum, mopped spill, and checked expiry means fewer surprises down the line. Safety talk sounds basic until a split-second lapse brings real consequences. Kept right, this fragrant liquid supports creativity and industry without tipping into risk.
Allyl phenoxy acetate doesn’t flop onto a chemist’s desk with fanfare, but its look tells a story anyway. The liquid form, most common in labs and manufacturing, comes across as colorless or sometimes a faint pale yellow. Think about pouring a thimble of clear oil into a dish—and asking yourself, “What is this really?” That clarity or near-clarity often signals high purity, a telling sign, especially for cosmetic chemists and perfumers who won’t touch anything that messes with color-sensitive work.
Walk into a room with a bottle of this compound, and your nose picks up a soft, floral odor. The scent is subtle—not as wild as citrus or mint, but with a faint sweetness that’s instantly familiar to anyone who works with esters. A lot of chemists and product formulators actually like this understated aromatic signature. It keeps formulas from veering into overwhelming territory, and it’s part of the reason Allyl phenoxy acetate finds its way into perfumes and some personal care products. The gentle, lingering smell offers consistency over time.
Allyl phenoxy acetate boils at around 285°C. That number isn’t just some trivia for a test—it makes things practical for the folks on the ground in factories and labs. Run-of-the-mill solvents come and go well before this compound even flinches at a hotplate. This high boiling point lets manufacturers blend and cook up mixtures without losing the acetate to evaporation right away.
Take it from anyone who has tried to capture fragrant notes in a blend: if an ingredient vanishes at low heat, you waste time and money. You chase after every last drop, set off alarms, and slow production lines. Allyl phenoxy acetate avoids these headaches. Its resilience under heat lets it stick around for the long haul during distillation or fragrance mixing, so you get what you paid for.
After a few years of handling raw materials, you start realizing how often product quality and safety depend on basic physical properties. Clarity and color speak volumes if you’re screening for contamination. I’ve watched colleagues send back shipments after finding a hint of cloudiness. Maybe there’s something extra in there—maybe just water, maybe worse. That tiny detail saved hours of rework down the line and protected everyone who would end up using the final product. Even small changes in odor can flag off-spec material and prevent a costly recall.
Boiling point, too, isn’t just for academic curiosity. On an industrial line, knowing the volatility of every ingredient curbs fire risk and supports a safer workplace. Many operators rely on that consistent boiling behavior to set distillation columns and ensure fire systems don’t get overwhelmed.
Problems aren’t rare. Batch-to-batch consistency can trip up production runs, especially with esters that love reacting with environmental traces of acid or moisture. Reliable suppliers help, but tight controls in handling and storage make the biggest impact. Setting up closed systems, using inert atmospheres, and training staff so they know what purity looks and smells like—these steps help chemical teams keep product quality in check. RA teams, especially in cosmetics or perfumery manufacturing, benefit from quick visual and olfactory checks alongside lab analysis. Besides, giving workers hands-on experience with these telltale signs—color, odor, boiling range—lets them catch problems before things snowball and customers start to complain.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | 2-Phenoxyprop-2-en-1-yl acetate |
| Other names |
2-Phenoxyprop-2-enyl acetate
Allyl phenoxyacetate Phenoxyacetic acid allyl ester Allyl 2-phenoxyacetate |
| Pronunciation | /ˈæl.ɪl fəˈnɒk.si əˈsiː.teɪt/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 7493-74-5 |
| Beilstein Reference | 752605 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:34507 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL3187885 |
| ChemSpider | 68778 |
| DrugBank | DB14096 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 08daeb9b-0b14-46ab-945d-2780d37f174b |
| EC Number | 203-536-7 |
| Gmelin Reference | 822215 |
| KEGG | C18560 |
| MeSH | D000569 |
| PubChem CID | 5362965 |
| RTECS number | AJ3675000 |
| UNII | 4JZ741793V |
| UN number | UN3276 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C11H12O3 |
| Molar mass | 178.21 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid. |
| Odor | Sweet, floral, phenolic |
| Density | 1.111 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Insoluble in water |
| log P | 2.74 |
| Vapor pressure | 0.02 mmHg @ 25°C |
| Acidity (pKa) | 13.38 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -70.8×10⁻⁶ cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.513 |
| Viscosity | 12 mPa·s (at 20°C) |
| Dipole moment | 2.75 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 395.36 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -215.2 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -4677.90 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | R02AA20 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | **GHS07, GHS09** |
| Pictograms | GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | H302, H315, H319, H411 |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P271, P272, P273, P280, P301+P310, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P313, P312, P321, P330, P337+P313, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P235, P405, P501 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-2-2-🌐 |
| Flash point | 93°C |
| Autoignition temperature | 326°C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 oral rat 3,600 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (oral, rat): 5000 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | B0181 |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) for Allyl Phenoxy Acetate: Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 3 mg/m³ |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Phenoxyacetic acid
Allyl acetate Phenol Allyl alcohol Phenoxyethyl acetate |
