Butylphenyl Methylpropional
Also Known As:
- Lilial
- Lily Aldehyde
- 4-tert-Butyl-α-methyl-benzenepropanal
What Is It? Butylphenyl Methylpropional is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde commonly used as a fragrance ingredient in various cosmetic and personal care products. It is known for its potent floral scent, reminiscent of lily of the valley.
What Makes It Different? Butylphenyl Methylpropional stands out due to its strong and pleasant floral aroma, which makes it a popular choice in perfumery and scented products. Unlike some other aldehydes, it has a higher molecular weight, contributing to its more agreeable scent profile.
Where Does It Come From? This compound is synthetically produced, typically through the double anodic oxidation of 4-tert-butyl-toluene. While it can occur naturally in small amounts in certain plants like crow-dipper and tomatoes, the commercial production is entirely synthetic.
Where Is It Used? Butylphenyl Methylpropional is widely used in:
- Perfumes and colognes
- Aftershave lotions
- Bath products (e.g., bubble baths)
- Cleansing products
- Hair care products (e.g., shampoos)
- Moisturizers
- Household cleaners
- Laundry detergents
Is It Sustainable? The sustainability of Butylphenyl Methylpropional is a complex issue. While the synthetic production process allows for large-scale manufacturing, it raises concerns about environmental impact and resource use.
Sustainability Issues Related to Its Production:
- Environmental Impact: The production process involves chemical reactions that can generate waste and emissions, potentially harming the environment.
- Resource Use: The synthesis of Butylphenyl Methylpropional requires raw materials and energy, contributing to resource depletion and carbon footprint.
- Regulatory Concerns: Due to its potential reproductive toxicity, Butylphenyl Methylpropional has been banned in the EU for use in cosmetics since March 2022. This regulatory action highlights the need for safer and more sustainable alternatives in the fragrance industry.