FlavScents AInsights Entry for 3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate (CAS: 31846-06-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate
- IUPAC Name: 1,1-dimethylethyl cyclohexyl acetate
- CAS Number: 31846-06-7
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C12H22O2
- Molecular Weight: 198.31 g/mol
3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate is characterized by its ester functional group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The presence of the tert-butyl group contributes to its unique scent characteristics, often described as fresh and floral. The cyclohexyl ring structure provides a stable backbone that influences its volatility and diffusion properties.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate is known for its fresh, floral odor with a hint of fruity undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable for use as a modifier or impact note in fragrance compositions. The material does not have a well-documented taste threshold, but its odor threshold is typically low, allowing it to be perceived at minimal concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in fragrances and flavors. Its formation typically involves the esterification of cyclohexanol with acetic acid in the presence of an acid catalyst. This synthetic pathway allows for the controlled production of the compound, ensuring consistency in its sensory properties.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, 3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate is used to impart a fresh, floral note to various products. It is commonly found in fruit and floral flavor categories, where it serves as a background realism enhancer or a modifier. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. The compound is relatively stable under normal processing conditions, but care should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures or acidic environments, which may lead to hydrolysis.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate is widely used in the fragrance industry, particularly in floral and fresh fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing a fresh, clean scent that enhances the overall composition. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. The compound contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring guidelines.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
- Latin America: No specific data available; general compliance with regional standards is recommended.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values; usage should be guided by general safety assessments and industry practices.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in fragrances; no significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical use levels.
- Inhalation Exposure: Moderate volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be in place during handling.
Risk profiles do not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, but formulators should ensure compliance with relevant safety standards.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate is valued for its fresh, floral scent, making it a versatile component in both flavors and fragrances. It blends well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired freshness. Formulators should carefully balance its concentration to achieve the optimal sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 3-tert-butyl cyclohexyl acetate is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and usage in fragrances. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, which necessitate reliance on industry-typical practices and general safety guidelines. Formulators should remain informed about any updates in regulatory status or new research findings.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1–9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-02-02 09:32:26 GMT (p2)