Musk Ketone Product Description CAS#81-14-1

Musk ketone is a nitro-based synthetic musk, chemically named 1-(4-tert-butyl-2,6-dimethyl-3,5-dinitrophenyl)ethyl ketone, with the molecular formula C₁₄H₁₈N₂O₅ and a molecular weight of 294.31. At room temperature, it is a white to pale yellow flaky crystal or crystalline powder. Its melting point is 134–137°C, boiling point is approximately 369°C (760 mmHg), and flash point is >93°C (closed cup). Musk ketone is insoluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol, and soluble in benzyl benzoate, animal oils, and essential oils. Industrially, ketone is produced from m-xylene through a three-step reaction involving tert-butylation, acetylation, and nitration. The nitration reaction is carried out in a tubular reactor using a mixture of fuming nitric acid and concentrated sulfuric acid, with the reaction temperature controlled between -10°C and -5°C. A continuous production process using trichloroethane as the solvent is employed, achieving a conversion rate of 93.79%. Ketone musk possesses an elegant and rich musky aroma, with a subtle natural musky note and a powdery finish. The aroma is mellow and long-lasting. Its fragrance quality is more elegant than that of xylene musk. In its diluted state, it exhibits fruity-floral notes. Ketone musk is chemically stable but incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and strong bases.

Ketone Musk Product Applications CAS#81-14-1

Ketone musk is an important synthetic fragrance compound widely used in the daily chemical fragrance industry. In fragrance formulations, ketone musk is mainly used as a fixative, stabilizing the evaporation rate of the fragrance and improving its persistence. The dosage is usually below 10%. Ketone musk is widely used in the formulation of cosmetic and soap fragrances, and is an indispensable fixative in these fragrance formulations. Its aroma can soften and round out the sharp notes of floral, woody, amber, and resinous scents, making the overall fragrance harmonious and unified. Ketone musk can be compounded with fragrances such as methyl ionone, cinnamyl alcohol, and benzyl salicylate to formulate powdered fragrances. In cosmetics, ketone musk can also be used as a masking agent to cover up unpleasant odors from other ingredients in the formulation. As an edible flavoring agent, ketone musk can be used as a flavoring agent or auxiliary agent in food additives. It is important to note that due to the bioaccumulation risks and environmental persistence issues of nitromuses, the European Union listed ketone musk as a prohibited substance in cosmetics in 2009, and Japan has also completely banned nitromuses. China's "Cosmetic Hygiene Standards" implements quantity limits for ketone musk.