Isoamyl alcohol

Isoamyl alcohol (CAS 123-51-3), also known as isopentyl alcohol, is a short-chain primary alcohol used across flavor, fragrance, and chemical synthesis applications. With FEMA 2057 designation, it is a recognized flavoring ingredient. It serves as a key intermediate in producing ester compounds with characteristic fruity profiles. In food and beverage flavoring, it is the precursor to isoamyl acetate, the compound responsible for banana and pear notes.

These notes are essential in confectionery, beverages, and artificial flavor systems. Personal care formulators use it as a solvent and fixative in fragrance compositions, where it supports scent diffusion and stability. In plastics and polymer manufacturing, it functions as a reactive intermediate and process solvent in resin curing and cross-linking operations. It also serves as a chemical building block in pharmaceutical synthesis.

The material is further utilized as an extraction solvent in laboratory and industrial separation processes. It is supplied as a clear liquid in drum, IBC, and bulk quantities to meet various industrial demands. Food-grade material meeting FCC specifications is available for flavoring applications, while technical-grade is standard for industrial and polymer uses. Purity levels typically range from 98% to 99%+.

The specific purity depends on the grade and intended application required by the client. This versatile chemical remains a staple for manufacturers seeking reliable performance in both flavor and industrial sectors.