Musk Ambrette, scientifically known by its CAS number 83-66-9, is a synthetic compound that has a rich history in the fragrance and flavor industries. Its chemical identity as a nitro-musk is key to understanding its olfactory properties and its performance as a fixative. Understanding the chemical profile of Musk Ambrette helps us appreciate its former widespread use.

Chemically, Musk Ambrette is a dinitro derivative, characterized by its specific arrangement of functional groups on an aromatic ring. This structure is responsible for its characteristic sweet, heavy, floral, and musky odor, often described as ambrette-like with seedy undertones. Physically, it typically appears as pale yellow flake crystals, with a melting point in the range of 84-86°C. It exhibits good solubility in common organic solvents like alcohol, ether, and chloroform, which facilitated its incorporation into various product bases. However, its insolubility in water limited its application in aqueous-only formulations.

Historically, Musk Ambrette was a cornerstone ingredient for many perfumers. Its primary application was as a fixative, a role it performed exceptionally well by reducing the volatility of other aromatic compounds in a fragrance blend. This meant that a perfume containing Musk Ambrette would retain its scent for a longer duration. This property made it invaluable in the creation of long-lasting perfumes, colognes, and scented personal care products.

Beyond its role as a fixative, its unique aroma profile also contributed directly to the scent of the final product. It was commonly used in soaps, detergents, and even air fresheners, providing a pleasant and persistent fragrance. While its use in the flavor industry was less prevalent, it did find some limited applications there as well. The economic feasibility and strong scent profile made it an attractive option for manufacturers seeking to create appealing consumer products.

However, as scientific understanding evolved, the considerable drawbacks of Musk Ambrette came to light. The safety concerns, particularly photosensitization and neurotoxicity, have dramatically altered its standing in the industry. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. acknowledges the historical importance of Musk Ambrette while prioritizing the use of safer, compliant ingredients for modern applications. The journey from a widely used ingredient to one with severe restrictions reflects the ongoing commitment to safety and innovation in the chemical sector.