FlavScents AInsights Entry for Decane (CAS: 124-18-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Decane
• IUPAC Name: Decane
• CAS Number: 124-18-5
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not applicable, CoE number not applicable, IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C10H22
• Molecular Weight: 142.29 g/mol

Decane is a straight-chain alkane with ten carbon atoms. It is a saturated hydrocarbon, which means it contains only single bonds between carbon atoms. This structure contributes to its relatively low reactivity and characteristic odor profile. The lack of functional groups in decane results in a neutral odor, which can be described as mild and gasoline-like. Its structure-odor relevance is primarily due to its volatility and hydrophobic nature, making it a useful solvent in various applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Decane is characterized by a mild, gasoline-like odor with low intensity. It is not typically used for its flavor or fragrance properties but rather as a solvent or carrier due to its neutral sensory profile. The odor threshold for decane is relatively high, meaning it requires a significant concentration to be perceptible. In sensory applications, decane does not serve as an impact note or modifier but may contribute to the overall background realism in formulations where a subtle hydrocarbon note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Decane is not commonly found in nature as a distinct compound but can be a component of petroleum and natural gas. It is typically produced through the refining of crude oil and can also be synthesized through the Fischer-Tropsch process, which converts carbon monoxide and hydrogen into hydrocarbons. Decane's presence in natural sources is generally as a minor constituent, and it is not typically associated with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic production methods.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Decane is not commonly used as a flavoring agent due to its lack of distinctive taste or aroma. However, it may be used as a solvent or carrier in flavor formulations. In such cases, its use levels are typically low, often below 10 ppm in finished food or beverage products, to avoid imparting any off-notes. Decane is stable under a variety of conditions, including heat and pH variations, but it is prone to oxidation, which can affect its performance as a solvent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, decane is primarily used as a solvent or diluent rather than for its olfactory properties. It can be found in various fragrance families and product types, including perfumes and personal care products, where it helps dissolve other fragrance ingredients. Typical concentration ranges for decane in fragrances are qualitative, often used in trace amounts to ensure it does not overpower the intended scent profile. Its volatility contributes to its role as a top note, aiding in the initial diffusion of the fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Decane is not specifically listed as a flavoring agent by the FDA or FEMA but is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as a solvent.
• European Union: Under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, decane is not listed as a flavoring substance but may be used as a processing aid.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the UK aligns with EU regulations regarding decane's use.
• Asia: In Japan and China, decane's use is primarily as a solvent, with specific regulations varying by country.
• Latin America: In Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, decane is used in industrial applications, with limited use in food and fragrance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Decane's safety profile is primarily concerned with its use as a solvent. For oral exposure, decane is not typically ingested, and no ADI or MSDI is established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally considered low risk, with minimal irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is more relevant due to decane's volatility, with occupational exposure limits set to minimize inhalation risks. Overall, decane's risk profile is low when used appropriately in food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Decane is valued for its solvent properties, aiding in the dissolution and blending of other ingredients. It is often used in synergy with other solvents to enhance the stability and performance of formulations. Common pitfalls include using decane at concentrations that may impart unwanted hydrocarbon notes. It is frequently under-used in applications where a neutral solvent is required, and formulators should consider its volatility and stability when selecting it for specific applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on decane is well-established in terms of its chemical properties and industrial applications. However, its use in flavors and fragrances is less documented, with industry practices often guiding its application. Known data gaps include specific sensory thresholds and detailed regulatory approvals for flavor use. Regulatory ambiguities exist in regions where decane is not explicitly listed as a flavoring agent.

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 for decane)

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 2026-09-28 11:44:21 GMT (p2)