Research on Fragrances and Flavors: Chemical Properties and Application Value of Ligustral
1. Chemical Basis and Physical Properties of Ligustral
Ligustral, as an important alicyclic aldehyde compound, has the chemical name 2,4-dimethyl-3-cyclohexene-1-aldehyde with a molecular formula of C9H14O and a molecular weight of 138.21. This compound appears as a colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid at room temperature, exhibiting typical characteristics of aldehydes. From its molecular structure perspective, the ligustral molecule contains a cyclohexene ring and an aldehyde functional group; this unique structure endows it with distinctive chemical properties and aroma characteristics.
In terms of physical properties, ligustral has a density of 0.957g/cm³, boiling point at 189.2°C (under 760mmHg), and flash point reaching up to 61°C. Its vapor pressure is measured at 0.578mmHg (25°C), which are critical parameters for guiding distillation purification processes in industrial production as well as safety operations. Notably, ligustral is actually composed of two main isomers: 2,4-dimethyl-3-cyclohexenylaldehyde (Type I) which accounts for about 80% contributing primarily to the fragrance profile while Type II comprises approximately 20%, having relatively weaker scent.
2. Sensory Characteristics and Aroma Analysis
The most prominent feature of ligustral is its strong green floral note combined with grassy aromas that hold unique application value in the spice industry. A deeper analysis reveals that its aromatic composition also integrates fresh citrus notes particularly reminiscent of lemon along with specific refreshing sourness associated with lemongrass-like scents; this complex olfactory spectrum makes it an ideal raw material for formulating various fragrance types.
From sensory evaluation perspectives, ligustral exhibits excellent diffusion power making it especially suitable as top-note components in fragrance formulations by professional perfumers who can utilize it to provide fresh natural opening impressions for floral-type fragrances or clean/fruit-type perfumes alike without overwhelming other fragrant ingredients due to moderate longevity—presenting instead balanced profiles that reflect natural plant freshness rather than harshness.
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Summary & Outlook
Ligustral stands out among synthetic fragrances due not only because it's distinguished by unique green-floral scent but also demonstrates exceptional compatibility across diverse applications within personal care products through continuous innovation efforts focusing on enhancing stability while ensuring environmental sustainability principles remain intact throughout manufacturing practices going forward.