Allyl heptylate didn’t emerge from a single breakthrough, but grew out of decades of work on esters in the larger field of organic chemistry. Chemists explored the reaction between allyl alcohols and various acids starting in the early 1900s, driven by interest in fragrances and plasticizers. As the century progressed, focus shifted toward unsaturated esters, which offered clear advantages in terms of reactivity and scent profiles. Allyl heptylate entered research papers and lab notes as scientists started testing new esters for unique olfactory and chemical traits. The push for new aroma compounds became especially pronounced during the mid-20th century, right around the time industrial chemistry discovered that combining mid-length fatty acids with unsaturated alcohols often produced scent molecules both stable and pleasing to the nose. Today, its production owes just as much to these century-old explorations as to modern synthetic tweaks and safety demands.
Each bottle or barrel of allyl heptylate features a clear, slightly oily liquid with a distinct fruity scent. Perfumers and flavorists turn to it for its natural, invigorating aroma, which carries a specific nuance compared with shorter or much longer chain analogs. Chemical suppliers catalog it under several names and make it available for large-scale purchase, but small artisan labs also buy it for experimentation. While it has not reached the recognition of classic aroma esters, anyone who takes the time to explore its properties discovers an ester with unusual brightness and a mellow baseline. More and more industries, from fine fragrance to specialty solvents, take note of its versatility and distinctive sensory contribution.
Allyl heptylate (allyl heptanoate) combines the sharp reactivity of the allyl group with the hydrophobic seven-carbon tail of heptanoic acid. In practical terms, that means a compound with moderate volatility, a boiling point sitting above 200°C, and solubility in organic solvents but near-zero dissolving power in water. It shows resistance to slow hydrolysis under mild conditions, but acid or base solutions accelerate breakdown. Most tech sheets list a refractive index between 1.430-1.440, which helps authenticate the substance. A density a little under 0.9 g/cm³ makes it easy to pour and measure, without the heaviness of longer-chain esters. Producers stress the stability of this ester at room temperature, though light and air exposure eventually start breaking down the molecule.
Commercial bottles usually arrive with assay numbers greater than 97%, with any remainder attributed to minor by-products or traces of unreacted alcohol or acid. Labels must include the full chemical name, CAS number (142-19-8 for allyl heptanoate), hazard statements about skin and eye irritation potential, and UN transport classification for safe handling. Precise GC profiles are often demanded by buyers in the fragrance industry. Most companies avoid color additives, instead relying on regular purity testing to catch contamination. Any product lacking these technical details risks being set aside by both fragrance houses and regulatory agencies.
Production follows a familiar esterification pathway, bringing together allyl alcohol and heptanoic acid under an acidic catalyst, usually sulfuric acid, in a moisture-controlled system. The reaction needs careful heat management to avoid by-product formation and to ensure thorough water removal, which tips the reaction equilibrium toward the ester product. The process sometimes goes under reflux for several hours. After cooling, technicians neutralize the acid, separate organic and aqueous layers, and distill the crude ester under reduced pressure. The steps sound simple, but hitting high purity in a scalable process takes plenty of experience at the pilot plant stage. Industrial synthesis must account for safety risks, like flammable vapor buildup or acidic spills.
Allyl heptylate offers a reactive site at the allyl group, inviting classic addition reactions and even some polymerization if given the right monomer partners. Strong acids or bases hydrolyze the ester into heptanoic acid and allyl alcohol, making it a substrate for biodegradable or temporary fragrance modifiers. Chemists can oxidize the allyl double bond to generate epoxy esters, or run thiol-ene click reactions for specialty markets like UV-curable coatings. Modifying the heptanoic acid side allows researchers to introduce branching or isotopic labeling, creating versions of the compound valuable in tracer studies or specialized fragrance design.
Shoppers or chemists might see allyl heptanoate, allyl n-heptanoate, or even heptanoic acid allyl ester listed as synonyms on supplier websites. Some older catalogs use terms like "allyl enanthate," especially in historical fragrance literature. These names all point to the same compound. In the world of perfumery and food chemistry, supplier branding sometimes abbreviates the name for convenience, but regulatory submissions rely on the full IUPAC structure for clarity.
Regulatory authorities require gloves and splash-resistant eye protection anytime a technician handles allyl heptylate, because the ester can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. MSDS files emphasize the danger of inhalation exposure, particularly at elevated temperatures where vapors can accumulate. Facilities need exhaust hoods and spill response kits if they store more than a few liters at a time. Fire departments classify the material as a medium flammability hazard, thanks to both the allyl group and the underlying alcohol’s volatility. European and California safety standards both limit allowable residual content in consumer goods, which compels stricter purification. Down the line, product safety teams test for allergenic or sensitizing effects in finished consumer items, especially in fragrances.
Even though allyl heptylate found fame in fragrance design, it also draws interest from flavor chemists and specialty materials developers. The ester features a strong, fruity note reminiscent of pineapple and peach, so food flavorists apply tiny amounts in certain bakery and beverage blends. Industrial users sometimes explore it as a reactive monomer for customized plasticizers, tapping into the reactivity of the allyl group. In the laboratory setting, students use it to study ester formation and hydrolysis because its wide boiling range and distinctive odor make for easy demonstration and analysis. Niche players in green chemistry research try using structurally similar esters in biodegradable film blends to combine scent with material function.
Researchers dive into the molecule’s scent structure using both mass spectrometry and gas chromatography combined with olfactometry, probing why certain carbon chain lengths lead to distinct notes. Chemists test substitutions on either end of the molecule to push the scent toward greener, sharper, or heavier profiles. Universities publish studies on new methods for making allyl esters from renewable feedstocks, balancing efficiency with sustainability. Early-stage biotech companies test microbially-derived alcohol and acid versions, attempting to bypass petrochemical synthesis entirely. On the analytical side, scientists track breakdown products under forced aging conditions to estimate shelf life and predict off odors in packaged goods.
Animal studies flag some risk of dermal or respiratory irritation at moderate exposures, but so far, published research hasn’t identified severe chronic health hazards at the low concentrations found in finished consumer products. Regulatory agencies limit the use in food and fragrance products, setting threshold limits far below any demonstrated toxic dose. Ongoing research explores the potential for antibody response or long-term sensitization in individuals exposed frequently in industrial settings. Most of the acute toxicity concerns circle around the volatility and immediate irritant properties, which justify investing in training and local ventilation.
Demand from fine fragrance brands and artisan scent houses likely secures a place for allyl heptylate in scent design for years to come, yet broader trends push producers to minimize environmental impact. Synthetic chemists race to adapt batch methods to greener, solvent-less settings and look for biocatalytic alternatives using engineered enzymes. Digital scent prediction tools tap into esters like allyl heptylate to build models that help perfumers create new combinations without wasteful trial and error. As food flavoring faces tighter regulation, safer analogs might crowd the old molecule out of certain blends, but technical applications—from specialized lubricants to unique reactive intermediates—keep interest alive. The next few years will likely bring new supply chains, possibly based on biomass or reclaimed carbon, along with more precise digital monitoring of trace contaminants to satisfy rising safety scrutiny.
Most days, folks don’t give much thought to what makes their shampoo, deodorant, or laundry detergent smell pleasing. It’s a detail that slips under the radar, but a surprising amount of chemistry goes into every fresh scent. Allyl Heptylate doesn’t get mentioned in the grocery aisle, yet it stands as one of those behind-the-scenes players shaping how everyday products smell. Its fruity, floral note offers something subtle and uplifting that blends well into all sorts of fragrances. Perfumers and formulators reach for this ingredient to bring balance to scents that might otherwise feel thin or harsh. A subtle whiff often rounds out a formula, making the finished product far more pleasant.
Not every fragrance compound comes with a safe reputation, but Allyl Heptylate has been studied closely. Members of the International Fragrance Association include it in their safe-use guidelines. In my own experience working on fragrance development, quality and safety matter just as much as the final effect. This chemical ends up in shampoos, air fresheners, detergents, soaps, and even luxury perfumes. Big global fragrance firms document its use in formulas aiming for that juicy, slightly green note often described as “pear-like”. That’s more than marketing talk—it makes laundry day or a quick shower actually more enjoyable.
It pops up in fine fragrance creations, but it plays an even bigger role in everyday consumer products. The cost is manageable, supply chains keep it available, and its chemical stability stands up in products that get shipped across continents and stored for months. That’s not something every aroma compound can claim. I once saw a detergent go from smelling sharp and synthetic to clean and inviting just by adjusting the level of Allyl Heptylate. Customers notice the difference, even if they don’t know what caused it.
Some folks might feel uneasy seeing unfamiliar chemical names on product labels. It’s smart to stay cautious, and transparency builds trust. The good news here comes from a mix of science and regulation. Researchers have tested this compound for skin safety and environmental impact. At the right levels, it delivers appealing results without raising unnecessary risks. The European Chemicals Agency lists clear usage recommendations based on evidence, not just assumption.
In my years exploring the tricks of fragrance design, I’ve seen people respond best to scents that feel natural yet memorable. Allyl Heptylate’s structure gives it a versatility similar to what chefs seek in certain spices—it lifts the other “ingredients” without stealing all the attention. Cheaper synthetics sometimes overpower or turn sour with age, but this one keeps its freshness. That’s important in products stuck riding around in trucks or sitting on shelves for months.
The big challenge is always about balance—crafting scents that last, keep their best notes over time, and stay skin-friendly. Sustainability now pushes every industry to revisit its ingredient choices. Producers search for routes to manufacture Allyl Heptylate efficiently, aiming to reduce waste and limit impact. In my own experience, collaborating with suppliers who invest in both renewable sources and waste reduction makes a real difference. Picking ingredients that don’t just smell good but carry a strong safety profile forms the backbone of consumer trust.
Consumers may never ask the store clerk about Allyl Heptylate, but its role in the products crowding their bathroom shelves stands out each time they reach for something that genuinely smells fresh and clean. The future calls for even smarter chemistry, but for now, this fragrance component helps set the standard for pleasant, lasting scent in everyday life.
Allyl Heptylate pops up in ingredient lists for some personal care products, mainly as a fragrance material. Folks who pay close attention to cosmetic safety often scan for unpronounceable names like this one, looking for clues about what they’re really putting on their skin. It makes sense. People wear creams and lotions day after day, so every chemical counts in the long run.
This ingredient sits under a large umbrella called "esters." The science behind esters, and specifically allyl esters, gets pretty technical, but the main concern is how readily these compounds might react on or in the body. Some allyl compounds in the past have raised eyebrows over allergic reactions, skin irritation, or even toxicity at certain levels. That’s enough to make anyone want solid facts and updates from trusted sources.
The European Union’s Cosmetic Ingredient Database and the US Food and Drug Administration influence how brands pick their fragrance blends. Neither authority lists Allyl Heptylate as restricted or outright banned right now, which already tells people a lot. If something posed an obvious danger based on recent research, it wouldn’t last long in products in these huge markets.
Scent suppliers also work under self-imposed rules from industry groups like the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). Brands serious about global sales often follow IFRA standards, even if they aren’t law. IFRA evaluates both short-term irritation and long-term safety, especially for ingredients like this one used so close to skin.
The biggest weakness in Allyl Heptylate’s safety profile is the limited number of long-term studies on repeated skin application. No big red flags have popped up in short-term patch tests or animal studies. Still, the research pool remains fairly shallow. Most of what gets published involves small sample groups, single doses, or broader chemical cousins of Allyl Heptylate rather than this compound alone.
Cosmetic safety isn’t just about what you can get away with legally. Anyone who’s layered on lotion through cold winters or wrestled with mysterious rashes knows just how unpredictable skin reactions can get. The average consumer rarely gets all the data labs gather, so trust in regulatory bodies, dermatologist input, and real-world feedback plays a big role in comfort with any ingredient.
Growing demand for “clean” beauty keeps pushing brands and regulators to fill these research gaps. More testing — including longer-term exposure studies, human patch tests, and breakdown product analysis — would make decisions easier for both manufacturers and consumers. Tools like smartphone apps let people share real-world reactions, keeping pressure on brands to adjust formulas if problems pop up.
If you’re worried about allergies or sensitive skin, scanning for known irritants and keeping track of how your body responds gives you more control. Reporting unusual symptoms to dermatologists or even straight to brands helps make the data picture stronger. And supporting brands that fund independent toxicology reviews or list full ingredient breakdowns signals that transparency matters now more than ever.
The story of Allyl Heptylate isn’t one of immediate danger or clear safety — it’s a nudge toward a culture where brands and researchers keep up with new science, and everyday people ask smart questions about what goes into the products they use. That partnership keeps safety on track, even for the trickiest names on the label.
Allyl heptylate pops up across various fragrance compositions and flavor profiles. Most folks probably don't recognize the name, but if you've ever appreciated the crisp, fruity tones in certain perfumes or the smooth backnotes in cosmetics, you've brushed up against it. The key detail many chemists, perfumers, and safety regulators look for is its chemical formula: C10H18O2. This formula tells the entire story about its structure and properties.
A formula like C10H18O2 boils down to a chain of atoms working together to produce a specific scent or effect. Each part matters. The ten carbon atoms set up a backbone long enough to create a unique, non-polar body. The eighteen hydrogen atoms fill out the shape and decide how it bonds. The two oxygen atoms point toward it being an ester—a group known for bringing light, sweet, sometimes fruity smells.
Having worked with industrial ingredients, I’ve seen how one wrong digit in a formula causes problems down the line: product failures, wasted materials, even regulatory fights. Getting that C10H18O2 right means perfumers and food scientists select the safe ingredient, not something toxic or out of spec.
Companies can't just toss any ester into shampoos or air fresheners. The formula gives regulators something solid to verify. C10H18O2 lines up with existing safety data, toxicology reports, and international standards like REACH or IFRA. If a supplier substitutes a similar-sounding compound, customers run the risk of allergic reactions or unintended side effects. Accuracy saves headaches and lawsuits.
On the consumer end, knowing what’s in a fragrance or food item means more control, especially for those with sensitivities. Imagine seeing “allyl heptylate” on a label. Most would scroll past, but anyone armed with the right information—rooted in its C10H18O2 makeup—can make better choices. Transparency starts with scientifically sound formulas.
Sustainability in the chemical industry starts at the formula. Many chemists today look at C10H18O2 and ask if it can be derived from renewable sources. Biomass-based processes and greener production routes cut down on waste and lower the environmental footprint. Documented formulas give innovators a foundation for safer, cleaner synthesis routes.
Everyone in the supply chain, from factory floor to lab bench, works more efficiently with precise formulas. Teams can test, monitor, and trace batches back to their sources if an issue turns up. This sort of traceability builds trust at every level.
Understanding the chemical formula of allyl heptylate—C10H18O2—brings a lot more value than memorizing trivia. It touches quality, safety, innovation, and transparency. More folks outside the lab would benefit from taking a closer look at what’s behind the names and numbers on their favorite products.
Allyl Heptylate, a compound known in the chemistry world for its distinct pineapple scent, sometimes attracts the attention of fragrance makers and researchers. This compound has served in experimental compositions and flavor projects, yet its accessibility can raise some questions most folks outside large industrial labs don’t often think about.
Small operations and independent tinkerers have found it nearly impossible to source pure Allyl Heptylate. The main reason connects to strict regulations, safety protocols, and limited commercial demand. Most western chemical suppliers stock it only for verified businesses—colleges, research outfits, or flavor and fragrance developers with an official paper trail. I have seen hobbyists scour online marketplaces only to face dead ends, high costs, or lengthy verification requests.
Very few online retailers, aside from niche chemical distributors, list Allyl Heptylate for purchase. Sigma-Aldrich, Fisher Scientific, and TCI Americas serve as the go-to names for research chemicals in North America, but purchasing from them involves submitting details about the intended use, providing business credentials, and complying with layers of shipping and handling regulations. One needs to remember: most reputable suppliers will not sell to private individuals, mostly to ensure safety and legality.
Some internet shops claim to have “pineapple flavor essence” or something close. In my experience, these so-called suppliers rarely provide full transparency or proper documents. Buying chemicals without authentication can mean facing unpredictable quality, unknown additives, and even potential legal complications. Counterfeit chemicals and fake listings pop up frequently on online marketplaces. At street level, these transactions often end in disappointment or worse—unintended harm.
Stories keep surfacing across forums and industry groups about researchers who bought fragrances, only to find watered-down solutions. This undermines any scientific project, let alone personal safety. The health hazards of misstated ingredients or improper handling—like burns, respiratory distress, or accidental toxicity—go up for the untrained.
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) all lay down rules for trading, storing, and using specialty chemicals. Europe and Asia follow suit with their own laws. Firms breaking these regulations risk heavy fines, loss of business licenses, and civil or criminal liability. Responsible sourcing keeps people protected.
If a person only wants that unique scent for a project, plenty of synthetic fragrance oils capture pineapple notes without needing pure Allyl Heptylate. These blends, easy to find at craft or perfumery suppliers, remove regulatory burdens and most safety risks. For those set on the pure stuff for research: reach out to a university or research institution for a partnership or to make a small order through their channels.
It pays to stick with licensed suppliers, show proof of need, and review Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Chemical handling is no space to gamble or cut corners. By keeping sourcing above board and within regulatory guidelines, both professional and personal projects can avoid unnecessary danger and disappointment.
Allyl Heptylate slips into ingredient lists for perfumes, cosmetics, and sometimes cleaning products. It brings a fresh, slightly fruity scent, kind of like mixing green apples with a hint of sweet spice. Before this name popped up in technical circles, most people never gave it a second thought—just a quiet player in the world of artificial fragrances.
Every time a new chemical scent hits the market, I get flashbacks to friends who broke out in rashes after sampling a “hypoallergenic” perfume at the mall. The harsh reality: many chemicals, even those with a clean safety record, can irritate sensitive skin or trigger allergies in a small group of people. My own skin is sensitive—if there’s a new fragrance or cosmetic, I patch-test before spreading it all over. With Allyl Heptylate, the story is similar to other synthetic fragrances: documented allergies stay rare, but that doesn’t mean zero risk. Small studies, especially those coming from dermatology clinics in Europe, mention Allyl Heptylate on patch testing panels. Still, true allergy cases remain thin on the ground.
Toxicology reviews and fragrance safety assessments dive deep into dozens of new compounds each year. For Allyl Heptylate, these committees looked for skin irritation, sensitization risk, and any evidence it contains or forms harmful impurities. Most reports find it safe in low concentrations, as commonly used in cosmetic formulas. Almost every safety sheet agrees: high doses or pure chemical exposure can irritate skin, eyes, or lungs. Leaping from that to everyday product use, the exposure is minuscule. So why bring it up? Because it only takes one unusually sensitive person to provide a cautionary tale—red, itchy, or swollen skin after a perfume or hand cream containing the compound, even if millions use it safely. Sometimes, repeated low-level exposures set off a sensitization process, so allergy does not happen the very first time.
Regular people usually do not feel the effects of Allyl Heptylate, but those with a diagnosed fragrance allergy should read labels closely. Contact dermatitis patients, kids with eczema, and workers in industries mixing high-strength chemical fragrances might face more risk. People with asthma often tell me that strong smells, even if technically “safe,” can cause discomfort or flare-ups, so the content matters less than the total scent load. The EU keeps tabs on fragrance ingredients and the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) limits Allyl Heptylate to amounts unlikely to create issues for the majority. Some U.S. regulations lag behind or keep ingredient lists vague, so self-education is key.
Doctors can run patch tests to check for allergies if rashes or irritation keep showing up. Brands aiming for “clean” or “non-allergenic” labels often avoid compounds like Allyl Heptylate, so those prone to skin issues should shop selectively. Ingredient transparency would help—the more we know, the better choices we can make. For now, checking labels and understanding your own skin’s tolerance offer more protection than waiting for a perfect, risk-free product to appear. For those worried about potential reactions, a patch test on a wrist or inner arm cuts down surprises. Real progress comes from sharing reactions, reporting problems, and pushing companies to keep research open and honest.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | Heptyl prop-2-enoate |
| Other names |
Heptyl Allyl Ether
1-Heptyloxyprop-1-ene Allyl n-Heptyl Ether n-Heptyl Allyl Ether |
| Pronunciation | /ˈæl.ɪl ˈhɛp.tɪ.leɪt/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 142-27-0 |
| 3D model (JSmol) | `Allyl Heptylate` JSmol 3D model string: ``` CCCCCCC(=O)OCC=C ``` |
| Beilstein Reference | 1741267 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:89373 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL443023 |
| ChemSpider | 17620701 |
| DrugBank | DB14684 |
| ECHA InfoCard | echa.europa.eu/substance-information/-/substanceinfo/100.123.680 |
| EC Number | EC 210-964-4 |
| Gmelin Reference | 218938 |
| KEGG | C21706 |
| MeSH | D000573 |
| PubChem CID | 8776 |
| RTECS number | AT5250000 |
| UNII | 0U9Q1M7K3F |
| UN number | UN1993 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C10H18O2 |
| Molar mass | 186.32 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Odor | Fruity, banana |
| Density | 0.851 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.) |
| Solubility in water | Insoluble |
| log P | 2.3 |
| Vapor pressure | 0.021 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | pKa ≈ 16 |
| Basicity (pKb) | pKb = 3.89 |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.4250 |
| Viscosity | 2.98 mPa·s (25°C) |
| Dipole moment | 1.73 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 489.7 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -244.2 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -4306.3 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D09AB10 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS02,GHS07 |
| Signal word | Danger |
| Hazard statements | H226, H302, H315, H317, H319, H335 |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P271, P273, P280, P301+P310, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P312, P321, P331, P332+P313, P337+P313, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, P501 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 2-3-2 |
| Flash point | 86°F (30°C) |
| Autoignition temperature | 215°C |
| Explosive limits | 1.1% - 6.1% |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 oral rat 7.5 mL/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): 7.5 mL/kg (oral, rat) |
| NIOSH | SN 35600 |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL: Not Established |
| REL (Recommended) | 125 mg/m³ |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | IDLH: 10 ppm |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Allyl hexanoate
Allyl caprate Allyl caproate Allyl nonanoate Methyl heptylate Ethyl heptylate |
