Phenylacetic acid

Phenylacetic acid is an organic compound with a honey-like aroma, found in various natural sources like honey, cinnamon, and certain flowers. It is used in perfumery to impart sweet, floral, and honeyed notes to fragrances, enhancing their warmth and complexity.

Utilized in a wide range of fragrances to add sweetness and a natural floral quality. Its versatility allows it to blend well with various scent profiles, contributing to the overall richness and depth of the fragrance.

IUPAC Name: 2-phenylacetic acid
CAS Number: 103-82-2
Molecular Formula: C₈H₈O₂
Molecular Weight: 136.15 g/mol
Boiling Point: 265.5 °C (509.90 °F)
Melting Point: 76.7 °C (170.06 °F)
Class: Acid
Use/s: Scent
Synonyms
1: PHENYLACETIC ACID 2: 2-Phenylacetic acid 3: Benzeneacetic acid 4: Phenylethanoic acid 5: alpha-Toluic acid 6: Benzenacetic acid 7: phenylacetate 8: Benzylformic acid
Chemist Says
Shiny white solid with a floral odor; [Hawley] White crystalline solid; [MSDSonline]
Scent: Floral, Pungent, Sweet Animal, Honey
Scent profile
Scent profiles are inherently subjective and can significantly differ among individuals, and may also be influenced by the conditions at the time of evaluation. The information provided here is a synthesis of data from diverse sources, including books, cross-references, artificial intelligence analyses, and chemical research sites, aiming to present a comprehensive overview. We've distilled this information to highlight the most frequently observed scent profiles for each molecule or compound, offering a generalized perspective.

1: Honey, Sweet
2: Honey, Sweet, Floral
3: Floral odor
4: Honey-like, sweet, with a slightly floral nuance