Beta Damascenone Aroma Chemical
CAS# 23696-85-7

Beta-Damascenone (CAS No. 23696-85-7 for the general form, and 23726-93-4 for the (E)-isomer) is a transcendent fragrance compound belonging to the rose ketones family, bringing invaluable worth to the perfumery and flavor industries. Although it appears only in trace amounts in natural sources such as Bulgarian rose oil, red wine, apple juice, tea, and honey, this C13-norisoprenoid plays a defining role in creating the soul of a scent. Due to the exorbitantly high cost of natural extraction, Beta-Damascenone (which exists as a colorless to pale yellow clear liquid) is typically synthesized to meet high-end commercial standards.

The most captivating aspect of Beta-Damascenone lies in its highly complex, intense, and extremely diffusive olfactory profile. It does not simply exude a fresh rose scent, but radiates a complex aroma reminiscent of ripe plum, dark berries, warm honey, tobacco leaf, and notably, a seductive "baked apple" effect. At trace levels, its fragrance blends into a glowing aura; rather than overpowering, it acts as an amplifying prism, making the surrounding fragrance materials sharper, more passionate, and vividly lifelike.

In the art of perfumery, Beta-Damascenone acts more as an "effect" than a singular note. When used at very low concentrations (typically 0.01% - 0.2% in the fragrance concentrate), this compound imparts radiance, impressive projection, and luxurious depth. It is an indispensable ingredient for perfectly reconstructing natural rose accords, bridging the fruity-floral notes in the chypre family, or enhancing the warmth of oriental fragrances.

For the food and beverage industry, Beta-Damascenone is a revolutionary flavor enhancer. Even at sub-threshold concentrations, it possesses the ability to synergistically amplify fruity and floral notes, while simultaneously helping to mask and suppress off-flavors (such as the vegetal green bell pepper note in wine or bitterness in beverages).

Possessing one of the most powerful odor impacts in the world with an extremely low odor detection threshold (approximately 0.002 μg/kg in water), Beta-Damascenone demands finesse in its application. Perfumers are consistently advised to smell and evaluate this compound at a dilution of 1% or less. Most importantly, the use of Beta-Damascenone must strictly adhere to safety regulations; according to the 51st Amendment of the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), the combined total concentration of all rose ketones in finished fine fragrance products must not exceed 0.043% to eliminate the risk of dermal sensitization. Beta-Damascenone is an iconic raw material, unlocking endless creative potential when controlled at the perfect ratio.