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BENZOPHENONE

CAS
119-61-9
EC
204-337-6
Material type
synthetic aroma chemical
Canonical source
arctander

Benzophenone, with CAS number 119-61-9, is a synthetic aroma chemical commonly used in perfumery for its ability to absorb UV light, making it a popular choice in formulations designed to enhance the stability of fragrances exposed to sunlight. It is often incorporated into products such as sunscreens and other cosmetic formulations to protect fragrance integrity. In terms of olfactory character, Benzophenone is known for its sweet, floral, and slightly powdery scent, which can add depth and complexity to a fragrance composition. It typically sits in the middle to base notes of a formula, contributing to the overall longevity and richness of the scent. However, it is important to note that Benzophenone is subject to regulatory scrutiny, particularly in the context of IFRA guidelines, as it may have restrictions based on its concentration in finished products. Perfumers should be aware of these regulations and consider the potential for sensitization in consumers, as well as the need for proper labeling in accordance with allergen declarations. — AI-generated summary, 2026-09-02.

Formulation

Usage guidance

Suggested min
—
Suggested max
—
Cost
£240/kg
Stock
—
Compatibility tags
floralrosepowderyamberfixative-base
How it behaves

Olfactory profile

Family
domestic
Note tendency
Base
Descriptors
woodysweetpowderymetallic

A soft, faintly sweet balsamic material with a delicate rose-geranium and powdery floral character. Very mild in odor and primarily used as a fixative and UV absorber, lending subtle warmth and diffusion to floral bases.AI · claude-opus-4-7

Intensity
3 / 10
Tenacity
9 / 10
Volatility
2 / 10
Members

The rest of this material

Composition, IFRA restriction figures, allergen concentrations and where this material is bought are part of Perfume Foundry’s curated library and need an account. Create one or sign in.

chemicals · No. 280

Arctander monograph

Perfume and Flavor Chemicals, page 126.

BASEtenacity · lowpower · weak
faintpowderyrosygeraniummetallic
MW
182.22
BP
306°C
MP
48°C
Sp.Gr.
—
Refractive n
—
Rotation
—
Appearance

White rhombic crystals or amorphous flakes.

Solubility

Insoluble in water and glycerin, slightly soluble in propylene glycol, soluble in alcohol, soluble in most perfume oils.

Odor

Very faint, powdery-rosy, geranium-like odor with a slightly metallic note.

Uses in perfumery

Used extensively in perfumes for sweet-woody-geranium-like notes in low-cost fragrances, soap perfumes, etc. Useful as a fixative.

Uses in flavor

Occasionally used in flavors for imitation Apricot, Berry, Butter, Fruit, Nut, Peach, Vanilla, etc.

Production

1) From Benzylchloride plus Benzol (condens.). 2) From Benzonitrile plus Phenyl Magnesium bromide. 3) By oxidation of Diphenylmethane with chromic acid.

Identity
Aliases · 3
alpha-BenzophenoneBenzoyl benzeneDiphenyl ketone
Compliance note. Restriction data is sourced directly from IFRA publications and preserved with its document excerpt. Perfume Foundry is a compliance-support tool — not a substitute for a qualified safety assessor (CPSR / PIF).