Beta-Damascenone

Updated: 2026-09-15

Overview

Beta-Damascenone is a naturally occurring aromatic ketone first identified in rose oil. It belongs to the damascone family of compounds and is renowned for its exceptionally low odor threshold (detectable at parts-per-billion concentrations). The compound occurs naturally in various plants, fruits, and flowers including roses, tobacco, and grapes, contributing significantly to their characteristic aromas. In industrial applications, beta-Damascenone is synthesized for consistent quality and supply. Its molecular structure features an unsaturated ketone with a distinctive β-ionone skeleton, which accounts for its powerful fragrance characteristics. The compound is classified as a fine chemical with specialized handling requirements due to its potency and volatility.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Beta-Damascenone is a clear to pale yellow liquid with an intensely sweet, floral-fruity odor often described as resembling roses, apples, or honey. Chemically, it is relatively stable under normal storage conditions but may polymerize or degrade when exposed to excessive heat or strong acids/bases. The compound's low molecular weight contributes to its high volatility, making it valuable as a top note in fragrance compositions. Its partition coefficient (logP) of approximately 3.5 indicates good solubility in both polar and non-polar solvents, though it shows limited water solubility. The refractive index typically ranges between 1.495-1.505 at 20°C, a useful parameter for quality verification.

Main Applications

In perfumery, beta-Damascenone is a prized ingredient for creating sophisticated floral accords, particularly in rose, jasmine, and fruity fragrance compositions. Its potency allows perfumers to use minute quantities (often 0.01-0.1% in final formulations) to achieve significant olfactory impact. The food and beverage industry utilizes beta-Damascenone as a flavor enhancer, especially in products requiring natural-tasting fruit notes such as apple, berry, and tropical fruit flavors. It's commonly found in premium teas, wines, and confectionery products. Recent applications extend to functional fragrances for home care products and aromatherapy formulations where its mood-enhancing properties are valued.

Safety and Storage

As a concentrated fragrance compound, beta-Damascenone requires careful handling. The material safety data sheet (MSDS) classifies it as an irritant (skin and eyes) and recommends using personal protective equipment including gloves and safety glasses during handling. Proper storage involves amber glass or stainless steel containers with tight-fitting lids, maintained at temperatures below 25°C. The compound should be kept away from oxidizers and strong acids. Shelf life typically ranges 12-24 months when stored correctly, though some degradation of olfactory properties may occur over time. Spills should be contained with absorbent materials and disposed of according to local regulations.

B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing beta-Damascenone commercially, buyers should prioritize suppliers who provide comprehensive analytical documentation including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) reports and certificates of analysis. Key specifications to verify include purity level (typically 90-99%), optical rotation, and absence of synthetic byproducts. Bulk purchasing (5kg+) generally offers significant cost advantages, with prices varying based on purity and packaging requirements. Many manufacturers offer custom dilution services for buyers needing pre-mixed solutions. Logistics considerations are crucial due to the compound's classification; international shipments often require special documentation for fragrances/aroma chemicals. Payment terms for first-time buyers commonly involve advance payments or letters of credit.