2-Acetylthiophene (CAS 88-15-3) — Sweet Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Sweet · Balsamic

2-Acetylthiophene

CAS 88-15-3

Origin
synthetic
Note
Heart to base
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is 2-Acetylthiophene?

2-Acetylthiophene is a synthetic fragrance ingredient with a roasted, nutty aroma. It’s often used in food flavorings and some perfumes to add depth. This compound matters because it provides a unique sulfurous nuance that can’t be easily replicated with other ingredients, making it valuable for creating complex savory or gourmand scents.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Approved for use in fragrances
⚠ Sulfur content requires careful handling
CAS
88-15-3
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Sweet · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does 2-Acetylthiophene Smell Like?

2-Acetylthiophene delivers an intense, roasted character reminiscent of freshly popped popcorn or toasted nuts with a distinct sulfurous edge. The initial burst has a sharp, almost burnt quality that quickly mellows into a warm, savory heart. In dry-down, it leaves a lingering meaty-umami impression that works exceptionally well in gourmand compositions. The sulfur note is present but balanced – less aggressive than raw onion, more refined like roasted garlic or black truffle.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

2-Acetylthiophene belongs to the thiophene class of heterocyclic compounds, characterized by a five-membered ring containing sulfur. It’s produced synthetically through Friedel-Crafts acylation of thiophene. The acetyl group at the 2-position creates a stable structure that resists oxidation better than many sulfur compounds. While not found in nature, its aroma profile mimics certain Maillard reaction products found in cooked foods.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor ThresholdVery low (ppb range)

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Heart to base
Volatility
Medium (2-4 hours)
Blending
Specialized
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Used as nuance enhancer
Food Flavoring1-5 ppmUp to 10 ppmSavory applications

Classic Accords

Tip: Use sparingly in savory bases – even 0.1% can dominate a composition.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
2-Acetylpyrazine CAS 22047-25-2

Similar roasted effect without sulfur notes, better for clean applications.

2
Furfuryl Thioacetate CAS 13678-68-7

More coffee-like sulfur note with greater diffusion.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions currently apply (as of 54th Amendment).

RIFM Assessment

RIFM has evaluated this material and found it safe at current usage levels.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, 2-acetylthiophene doesn’t impact natural resources. Production requires controlled chemical synthesis with proper waste management due to sulfur content. The material’s high potency means very small quantities are needed, reducing overall environmental footprint compared to less powerful alternatives.

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References

  1. Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press.
  2. Arctander, S. (1969). Perfume and Flavor Chemicals. Allured Publishing.

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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