Chemical structure of Javanol, showing its unique molecular design with a hydroxyl group, utilized in synthetic perfumery for sandalwood-like fragrances
Javanol-brow-perfumery-bottle-base-scentspiracy.jpg
Chemical structure of Javanol, showing its unique molecular design with a hydroxyl group, utilized in synthetic perfumery for sandalwood-like fragrances
Javanol-brow-perfumery-bottle-base-scentspiracy.jpg

Javanol

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Javanol (CAS 198404-98-7) is a high-impact synthetic sandalwood molecule developed by Givaudan to emulate and exceed the performance of natural sandalwood oil. Characterized by its rich, creamy, and rosy-woody profile, Javanol offers exceptional substantivity—lasting over 400 hours on blotter—and a uniquely low odor threshold. Its molecular design, combining a rigid cyclopropyl spacer and an alcohol functional group, results in unmatched receptor binding efficiency.

Javanol is widely used across modern sandalwood bases and as a radiant fixative in musky, floral, and spicy accords.

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Premium Synthetic Ingredient for Perfumery

Javanol (CAS 198404-98-7) is a high-impact synthetic sandalwood molecule developed by Givaudan to emulate and exceed the performance of natural sandalwood oil. Characterized by its rich, creamy, and rosy-woody profile, Javanol offers exceptional substantivity—lasting over 400 hours on blotter—and a uniquely low odor threshold. Its molecular design, combining a rigid cyclopropyl spacer and an alcohol functional group, results in unmatched receptor binding efficiency.

Javanol is widely used across modern sandalwood bases and as a radiant fixative in musky, floral, and spicy accords.

Technical Ingredient Overview

  • 🏭 Manufacturer — Givaudan SA

  • 🔎 Chemical Name — [1-Methyl-2-[(1,2,2-trimethylbicyclo[3.1.0]hex-3-yl)methyl]cyclopropyl]methanol (mixture of diastereoisomers)

  • 🧪 Synonyms — Sandal cyclopropane; Java Sandalwood; Cyclopropanemethanol, 1-methyl-2-[(1,2,2-trimethylbicyclo[3.1.0]hex-3-yl)methyl]-

  • 📂 CAS Number — 198404-98-7

  • 📘 FEMA Number — 4776

  • 📐 EC Number — 427-900-1

  • ⚖️ Molecular Weight — 222.37 g/mol

  • 📝 Molecular Formula — C₁₅H₂₆O

  • 📈 Odor Type — Woody, Sandalwood

  • 📊 Odor Strength — Exceptionally high; odor threshold of 0.02 ng/L air (20 ppt)

  • 👃🏼 Odor Profile — Rich, creamy sandalwood with rosy-floral nuances; powerful, diffusive, and exceptionally tenacious with metallic-citric grapefruit facets and milky-lactonic undertones

  • ⚗️ Uses — Fixative and sandalwood base for fine fragrance; modifier in woody, floral, musky, and amber accords; functional perfumery for soaps, detergents, and cosmetics

  • 🧴 Appearance — Colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid

What is Javanol?

Javanol is a high-impact synthetic sandalwood odorant discovered in 1996 by chemist Jerzy Bajgrowicz at Givaudan (Escentric Molecules, 2017). This molecule represents a breakthrough in sandalwood chemistry, achieving what many consider the closest synthetic approximation to the olfactory receptor binding profile of natural β-santalol—the principal odor-active component in East Indian sandalwood oil (Santalum album) (Ohloff, Pickenhagen, & Kraft, 2012).

Javanol belongs to the campholenic aldehyde-derived sandalwood family and is characterized by multiple asymmetric carbon centers, resulting in a mixture of diastereomeric isomers used commercially in perfumery (Givaudan, 2024). Unlike its structural precursor, the molecule features two cyclopropane rings that replace reactive double bonds, creating a rigid, electron-rich framework optimized for olfactory receptor activation (Bajgrowicz, Frank, Frater, & Hennig, 1998).

The chemical is classified as a tertiary cyclopropyl alcohol within the bicyclic terpene-derived class of fragrance materials. Its molecular architecture combines hydrophobic bulk with precisely positioned hydrogen-bonding capability—a structural motif essential for sandalwood odor character (Fráter, Bajgrowicz, & Kraft, 1998).

Historical Background

Discovery and Development

Javanol was discovered in 1996 by Jerzy Bajgrowicz, working in collaboration with Georg Frater at Givaudan's fragrance research center in Dübendorf, Switzerland (Escentric Molecules, 2017). The discovery emerged during Givaudan's intensive research program focused on macrocyclic and alicyclic fragrance molecules, particularly in response to the growing scarcity and escalating cost of natural sandalwood oil (Gaillard, 2007).

By the mid-1990s, the fragrance industry was engaged in what has been described as a "sandalwood arms race," with major houses including Givaudan, IFF, Firmenich, Kao, and Symrise all developing synthetic alternatives (Escentric Molecules, 2017). While Givaudan already possessed several successful sandalwood molecules—including Sandela, Radjanol, and Ebanol—and competitors had introduced Bacdanol (IFF), Polysantol (Firmenich), and Brahmanol (Symrise), none matched the receptor-binding efficiency ultimately achieved by Javanol (Escentric Molecules, 2017).

First Synthesis and Patent Protection

The synthesis of Javanol was first disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,707,961, filed in April 1996 and granted in January 1998 to Givaudan-Roure (International) SA, with inventors Jerzy A. Bajgrowicz and Georg Frater (Bajgrowicz & Frater, 1998). The patent covered novel odorants derived from campholenic aldehyde through double cyclopropanation methodology.

Year of Commercial Introduction

Javanol was officially introduced to perfumers in 1997 (Yudov, 2017), though its discovery and initial synthesis occurred in 1996. The molecule quickly gained recognition for its unprecedented odor threshold and unique olfactory characteristics, establishing itself as a benchmark material in modern sandalwood perfumery (Gautschi, Bajgrowicz, & Kraft, 2001).

Olfactory Profile

Scent Family

  1. Primary Classification: Woody – Sandalwood

  2. Secondary Classifications: Floral (rose facet), Citrus (grapefruit nuance), Musky (clean lactonic aspect)

Main Descriptors

Javanol presents a powerful, creamy sandalwood note reminiscent of β-santalol, combined with distinctive rosy nuances (Givaudan, 2024). The molecule exhibits a unique "almost psychedelic freshness" with what perfumer Geza Schoen describes as "liquid metallic grapefruit peel poured over a bed of velvety cream-colored roses" (Escentric Molecules, 2017).

The olfactory character includes:

  • Primary facets: Creamy sandalwood, milky-lactonic, woody warmth

  • Secondary facets: Rosy-floral brightness, citric grapefruit aspects, subtle musk

  • Tertiary facets: Dry vetiver undertones, metallic-cologne freshness, clean powdery nuances (Gaillard, 2007)

According to perfume chemist Arcadi Boix Camps, Javanol is unique among synthetic sandalwood molecules in that it captures both the aldehydic and alcoholic character of natural sandalwood oil, making it "perhaps the best of all" sandalwood synthetics and "impossible to replace" (cited in Pellwall, 2024).

Intensity

Javanol possesses an extraordinarily low odor threshold of 0.02 ppt (parts per trillion), or 0.02 nanograms per liter of air—making it approximately 400 times more potent than its closest analog, Pashminol (Yudov, 2017). This odor threshold represents one of the lowest values recorded for any sandalwood-type molecule (Ohloff, Pickenhagen, & Kraft, 2012).

In wash tests, Javanol demonstrates approximately 8 times greater effectiveness than the most powerful competing sandalwood products (Perfumer's Apprentice, 2024), attributed to its superior receptor binding affinity and resistance to volatilization.

Tenacity

Javanol exhibits exceptional substantivity, lasting over 400 hours on blotter—significantly exceeding the performance of natural sandalwood oil and competing synthetics. This extraordinary longevity derives from:

  1. High molecular weight (222.37 g/mol)

  2. Tertiary alcohol functionality with steric shielding

  3. Extremely low vapor pressure (0.0003 hPa at 20°C) (Givaudan, 2024)

  4. Strong lipophilic character (Log P = 4.8)

Volatility

Boiling Point: 268°C (at atmospheric pressure) (Givaudan, 2024)

Evaporation Rate: Very slow (base note category)

Volatility Classification: Heavy base note with exceptional fixative properties

Despite its base note classification, Javanol demonstrates unusual radiance and diffusivity, projecting effectively even at trace concentrations (Givaudan, 2024). This paradoxical behavior—combining low volatility with high perceptibility—results from its remarkably low odor threshold and optimal receptor binding.

Fixative Role

Because of its exceptional performance and stability, Javanol functions as the structural backbone for modern sandalwood notes and can enhance substantivity across all fragrance phases (Gaillard, 2007). Perfumer Antoine Gaillard notes that "a very small dosage of Javanol (0.02%) can produce a boosting effect, conferring additional volume and improved substantivity to more traditional sandalwood-type compositions" (Gaillard, 2007).

The molecule's fixative properties extend beyond sandalwood accords: Javanol's additional olfactive facets and low threshold enable trace amounts to impart volume and radiance effects to all types of perfumes (Gaillard, 2007), functioning as what industry professionals term a "radiant fixative."

Applications in Fine Fragrance

Role in Fragrance Compositions

Javanol serves as the backbone for all modern sandalwood notes due to its performance and stability (Gaillard, 2007). However, perfumers recognize that the very specific scent of sandalwood oil is difficult to reproduce with a single molecule, and consequently, a mixture of several synthetic sandalwood substitutes is necessary to obtain the complete olfactory profile of natural sandalwood oil (Gaillard, 2007).

Primary Applications:

  • Sandalwood Reconstruction: Core material in sandalwood bases and accords

  • Woody-Oriental Compositions: Provides creamy depth and warmth

  • Floral Modulation: Enhances rose, jasmine, and lily-of-the-valley with rosy-woody facets

  • Musky Accords: Contributes clean, lactonic warmth to modern musks

  • Amber Structures: Adds fixative strength and creamy-woody character

Typical Accords and Combinations

Javanol demonstrates notable synergy with Nectaryl, creating an unexpected "reminiscence of a pencil freshly carved at school" with surprising inflections of peach and patchouli (in a 20:80 ratio) (Perfumer's Apprentice, 2024).

Recommended Pairings:

  • With other sandalwood synthetics: Polysantol (for increased sweetness and milkiness), Ebanol (for musky-leathery depth), Bacdanol (for soft, powdery effects)

  • With natural materials: Vetiver oil, patchouli, rose absolute, jasmine, bergamot, labdanum, oakmoss

  • With synthetics: Iso E Super, Cashmeran, Hedione, ionones, musks, amber bases

Pairing Behavior with Other Ingredients

The molecule's strong sandalwood character can "saturate" specific olfactory receptors at low concentrations, subsequently activating less specific neurons that code for lactonic, rose, lily-of-the-valley, and grapefruit notes (Escentric Molecules, 2017). This combinatorial receptor activation explains Javanol's complex, multi-faceted character.

Formulation Considerations:

  • Can skew overly "rosy" if overdosed; careful modulation with lactones, ambers, or other woody materials is recommended

  • Many perfumers find Javanol so strong that it requires very judicious dosing (Pellwall, 2024)

  • Works exceptionally well in trace amounts (0.02–0.1%) as a radiance booster

  • Typical fine fragrance usage: 0.5–2% in compound

Notable Fragrances Featuring Javanol:

  • Truth for Men (Calvin Klein), Chic for Men (Carolina Herrera) (Pellwall, 2024)

  • Orto Parisi Bergamask (Alessandro Gualtieri) (Yudov, 2017)

  • Molecule 04 and Escentric 04 (Escentric Molecules, Geza Schoen)

Performance in Formula

Behavior in Blends and Mixtures

Javanol offers excellent oxidative and thermal stability, making it suitable for most applications except highly reactive systems like bleach. The molecule's stability profile includes:

Chemical Stability:

  • ✅ UV-stable (not photolabile)

  • ✅ Oxidation-resistant under normal conditions

  • ✅ Thermally stable up to moderate temperatures

  • ✅ Acid/base stable under mild pH conditions (pH 4–9)

  • ❌ Not bleach-resistant (alcohol functionality vulnerable)

Physical Stability:

  • Excellent solubility in alcohol, dipropylene glycol, and fragrance oils

  • Maintains clarity in aqueous-alcoholic systems

  • Non-discoloring in most applications

  • Minimal reactivity with aldehydes, ketones, and esters

Impact on Overall Composition

Javanol's behavior during evaporation varies depending on the type of application in which it was incorporated (Gaillard, 2007), demonstrating context-dependent olfactory evolution. In alcohol-based fine fragrances, the molecule provides:

  1. Opening Phase: Surprisingly radiant projection despite base note classification

  2. Heart Development: Emergence of rosy-floral and citric facets

  3. Drydown: Persistent creamy sandalwood with musky warmth

Technical Performance Metrics:

  • Diffusivity: High (despite low vapor pressure)

  • Bloom: Excellent radiance on skin and textiles

  • Wash Fastness: Superior retention through multiple launderings

  • Substantivity: Exceptional on cellulosic and protein fibers

Industrial & Technical Uses

Non-Fragrance Applications

Javanol is FEMA-approved (FEMA 4776) for use in flavoring applications (Givaudan, 2024), though it is not widely used in flavor work. The molecule's flavor profile includes woody and amber characteristics that may contribute to certain specialty flavor systems.

Industrial Processes and Functions

Functional Perfumery Applications:

  • Fabric care products (detergents, softeners, dryer sheets)

  • Personal care (shampoos, body washes, lotions, creams)

  • Household products (air fresheners, cleaning agents)

  • Candles and home fragrance systems

Manufacturing Considerations:

  • Synthesized via double Simmons-Smith cyclopropanation from 2-methyl-4-(2,2,3-trimethyl-3-cyclopenten-1-yl)-2-buten-1-ol, involving zinc and copper catalysis with diiodomethane (Givaudan, 2024)

  • Derived from naturally occurring α-pinene (obtained from pine turpentine) (Gaillard, 2007)

  • Commercial material is a mixture of diastereoisomers; Javanol® Super represents a single isolated isomer with enhanced performance (Givaudan, 2024)

Technical Specifications and Requirements

Storage Requirements:

  • Store in tightly closed containers

  • Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames

  • Recommended storage temperature: 15–25°C

  • Shelf life: 24 months under proper storage conditions

Handling Precautions:

  • Classified as skin sensitizer (Category 1)

  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment

  • Avoid prolonged skin contact

  • Ensure adequate ventilation during formulation

Regulatory & Safety Overview

IFRA Status

Javanol does not contain any allergens listed among the 26 declarable fragrance allergens under EU Cosmetics Regulation (Givaudan, 2024). According to current IFRA Standards (through the 51st Amendment, notified June 30, 2023), Javanol is not restricted (International Fragrance Association, 2023).

However, general usage guidance suggests levels up to 2% in finished products (equivalent to 20% in fragrance concentrate) based on industry best practices and formulation performance optimization rather than regulatory limitation.

EU Cosmetics Regulation

  • Compliance Status: ✅ Compliant for use in cosmetic products

  • Allergen Declaration: Not required (not among the 26 declarable substances)

  • CLP Classification: Skin sensitizer Category 1

Under EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products, Javanol may be used in cosmetic formulations when properly declared on ingredient lists and subject to standard safety assessment requirements.

FEMA Status

  • FEMA Number: 4776 (Givaudan, 2024)

  • Classification: Approved for use as a flavoring substance

  • Usage: Limited application in flavor systems due to predominantly woody-aromatic profile

Toxicology

Based on industry safety data and RIFM assessments (Research Institute for Fragrance Materials):

Acute Toxicity: No significant concerns at normal usage levels

Skin Sensitization: Classified as Category 1 skin sensitizer; appropriate handling protocols required

Environmental Profile: No major concerns related to bioaccumulation or aquatic toxicity reported under normal usage conditions

Safety Recommendations:

  • Follow standard industry safety protocols during handling and formulation

  • Conduct appropriate skin sensitization testing in finished product formulations

  • Adhere to good manufacturing practices (GMP)

  • Maintain proper documentation of safety assessments

Sustainable Production and Environmental Considerations

Renewable Feedstock

Javanol is derived from α-pinene, a naturally occurring terpene obtained from pine turpentine (Gaillard, 2007), making it significantly more sustainable than natural sandalwood oil from endangered Santalum album trees. The starting material originates from forestry byproducts, representing a renewable and non-threatened resource.

Conservation Impact

The development of high-performance sandalwood synthetics like Javanol directly addresses the growing scarcity and escalating price of natural sandalwood oil, which has resulted from overharvesting of slow-growing Santalum species (Gaillard, 2007). East Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) has been listed on the IUCN Red List since 2004, and the Indian government has implemented protective legislation to prevent over-exploitation (Arctander, 1960).

By providing a viable alternative to natural sandalwood oil, Javanol contributes to conservation efforts while enabling perfumers to create sandalwood accords without depleting endangered tree populations.

Advantages and Limitations

Key Advantages

  • ✅ Exceptional Potency: Lowest odor threshold among sandalwood synthetics (0.02 ng/L air)

  • ✅ Unmatched Tenacity: Over 400 hours substantivity on blotter

  • ✅ Superior Receptor Binding: Optimized electronic shape for sandalwood perception

  • ✅ Excellent Stability: UV-stable, oxidation-resistant, thermally robust

  • ✅ Multi-Functional: Serves as backbone, modifier, booster, and radiant fixative

  • ✅ Renewable Source: Derived from pine-sourced α-pinene

  • ✅ No IFRA Restrictions: Unrestricted use under current standards

  • ✅ Non-Allergenic: Not among the 26 declarable allergens

Limitations and Considerations

  • ⚠️ Overdose Sensitivity: Can skew overly "rosy" at high concentrations

  • ⚠️ Not Bleach-Resistant: Alcohol functionality vulnerable in aggressive oxidative systems

  • ⚠️ Skin Sensitization: Classified as Category 1 sensitizer; requires proper handling

  • ⚠️ Single-Note Limitation: Cannot fully replicate the complexity of natural sandalwood oil as a standalone ingredient

  • ⚠️ Cost Factor: Premium pricing reflects complex synthesis and exceptional performance

  • ⚠️ Abstraction Character: Represents an "abstraction of santalness" rather than complete natural oil replication

Related Scentspiracy Database Entries

Structural Relatives

  • Polysantol® Polysantol® (107898-54-44-) — Constitutional isomer of Javanol with similar structure; exhibits a more pronounced milky note but lower potency (Givaudan, 2024)

  • Ebanol/Matsunol (67801-20-1) — Precursor in the campholenic aldehyde family; mixture of diastereomeric alcohols with musky-leathery facets (Surburg & Panten, 2016)

  • Bacdanol (28219-61-6) — IFF sandalwood synthetic with soft milky undertones and excellent stability (Surburg & Panten, 2016)

  • Brahmanol (72089-08-8) — Symrise sandalwood alcohol with 69% renewable carbon content and creamy-musky character (Symrise, 2022)

Natural Comparisons

  • Sandalwood Oil (8006-87-9) — Natural essential oil from Santalum album with complex woody-lactonic profile (Arctander, 1960)

Complementary Materials

  • Cedramber (67874-81-1) — Dry woody-amber from cedarwood chemistry; pairs well with sandalwood synthetics (Surburg & Panten, 2016)

Sources

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