Propionaldehyde
Description
Propionaldehyde (CAS 123-38-6), also known as propionic aldehyde, is a short-chain aliphatic aldehyde used primarily as a building block in flavor and fragrance manufacturing.
Its sharp, slightly fruity character makes it a valued raw material for synthesizing aroma compounds at commercial scale. In flavor creation, it is used to produce aldehydic top notes in food flavoring systems.
It contributes to profiles found in dairy, fruit, and bread-type products and carries FEMA 2923 status, supporting its use in regulated food applications across the global market.
Fragrance manufacturers use it as an intermediate in the synthesis of longer-chain aldehydes and other aroma chemicals that appear in fine fragrance and personal care formulations.
It also functions as a chemical intermediate in the production of propionic acid derivatives, trimethylolethane, and other downstream industrial chemicals used in various manufacturing sectors.
In cosmetic fragrance compounding, it enables the construction of fresh, clean scent profiles in rinse-off and leave-on product formats, ensuring versatility for formulators and chemists.
Propionaldehyde is supplied as a colorless liquid, typically in bulk quantities suited to industrial and flavor-house procurement. Standard commercial grades are available for immediate shipping.
High-purity specifications meet the requirements of flavor and fragrance applications under FEMA guidelines, ensuring consistent quality and performance for all industrial chemical applications.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -81 °C |
| Boiling Point | 49 °C @ Press: 760 Torr |
| Density | 0.8657 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Flash Point | −16 °F |
| Appearance | Propionaldehyde is a colorless liquid. Very strong, intensive fruit odor |
| Color | White |
| Odor | at 0.10 % in propylene glycol. earthy alcohol wine whiskey cocoa nutty |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 540 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 18.77 psi ( 55 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.362(lit.) |
| Log P | 0.59 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29121900 |
| UN Number | 1275 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 3 - Flammable liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
propylic aldehyde|propyl aldehyde|propionic aldehyde|propional|n-propionaldehyde|n-propanal|1-propanal|propanal
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