Linalool (CAS 78-70-6) is a fascinating organic compound that holds significant importance across multiple industries. As an aromatic alcohol, its chemical structure and reactivity make it a valuable ingredient for perfumers, flavorists, and chemists alike. Understanding its properties and synthesis is crucial for anyone involved in its procurement or application.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Linalool is a monoterpenoid, meaning it is derived from two isoprene units. Its chemical formula is C₁₀H₁₈O, and its IUPAC name is 3,7-Dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-ol. Key physical and chemical properties include:

  • Appearance: Typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid.
  • Odor: Possesses a pleasant, mild floral and woody aroma, sometimes described as slightly citrusy.
  • Volatility: It is a relatively volatile compound, contributing to its effectiveness as a top-note ingredient in fragrances.
  • Solubility: Insoluble in water but readily soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether.
  • Chirality: Linalool exists as two enantiomers, (R)-(-)-Linalool and (S)-(+)-Linalool, which have slightly different scent profiles. Racemic mixtures are also common.
  • Reactivity: As a tertiary alcohol with double bonds, Linalool can undergo various chemical reactions, including isomerization, oxidation, and hydrogenation. It is generally stable in alkaline conditions but can isomerize in acidic media.

Synthesis Routes: From Nature to Industry

While Linalool is naturally abundant in many plant essential oils, industrial-scale demand necessitates efficient synthetic production. Several key synthesis routes are employed:

  • From α-Pinene or β-Pinene: Turpentine, derived from pine trees, is a common starting material. Through multi-step processes involving hydrogenation, oxidation, and pyrolysis, α-pinene or β-pinene can be converted into Linalool. This route is economically viable for large-scale production.
  • From Myrcene: Myrcene, also obtainable from turpentine, can be hydrohalogenated and subsequently reacted to form linalyl acetate, which is then saponified to yield Linalool.
  • From 6-Methyl-5-hepten-2-one: This ketone can be synthesized through various methods, including reactions involving acetone and acetylene. Ethynylation followed by selective hydrogenation yields Linalool. This is a prevalent method for total synthesis.
  • Isolation from Natural Sources: For specific applications requiring natural Linalool, isolation from essential oils like rosewood or coriander oil is still practiced, though often more costly and with variable yields compared to synthetic routes.

Manufacturers like us invest heavily in optimizing these synthesis processes to ensure high purity and consistent quality of the final Linalool product. Our commitment to advanced chemical engineering allows us to offer Linalool (CAS 78-70-6) with a purity of 98.0% and above, suitable for demanding applications in the fragrance, flavor, and pharmaceutical industries. For those looking to understand the chemical underpinnings of this versatile molecule, exploring its properties and synthesis provides valuable insight.

If your business requires a reliable Linalool supplier or a trusted manufacturer of aromatic alcohol, understanding these chemical details is the first step. We provide comprehensive technical data and support to ensure you receive the Linalool best suited for your specific needs, whether for complex fragrance formulations or as a critical intermediate for Vitamin E synthesis.