Alkanes, C15-19-branched and linear (CAS 1437281-01-0) — Citrus Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Citrus · Floral

Alkanes, C15-19-branched and linear

CAS 1437281-01-0

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Alkanes, C15-19-branched and linear?

Alkanes C15-19 are synthetic hydrocarbon chains used as base ingredients in many consumer products. You’ll encounter them in candles, wax melts, and some fragrance bases. These odorless compounds provide structural support and slow-release properties in scented formulations.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Non-toxic and inert
✓ No known allergenicity
CAS
1437281-01-0
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Alkanes, C15-19-branched and linear Smell Like?

These alkanes are essentially odorless, serving primarily as carriers and fixatives rather than aromatic contributors. Their lack of scent makes them valuable for extending fragrance longevity without altering scent profiles. In formulations, they provide a neutral backbone that allows other aromatic compounds to shine.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

C15-19 alkanes are synthetic hydrocarbon mixtures with both branched and linear chains. Produced through petroleum refining and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, these saturated hydrocarbons are chemically inert. Their molecular weight range (C15-C19) makes them ideal for controlled release applications. Being fully saturated, they resist oxidation and maintain stability in formulations.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low
Blending
Neutral
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Candles20-40%Up to 60%Primary wax component
Fragrance Bases5-15%1-25%Fixative and carrier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use as a neutral base to extend longevity without adding competing scent notes.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Paraffin Wax CAS 8002-74-2

Similar hydrocarbon mixture with broader chain length distribution, commonly used in candle making and cosmetics.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions apply to these materials.

RIFM Assessment

Not currently assessed by RIFM due to low aromatic impact.

Sustainability

As petroleum-derived materials, these alkanes raise sustainability concerns. Some manufacturers are developing bio-based alternatives through advanced fermentation processes. Their synthetic origin means no agricultural land use, but fossil fuel dependence remains an environmental consideration.

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References

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

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    Ingredient Data Sheet

    CAS 1437281-01-0
    Data Sources & Attribution
    Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.

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