hexyl tiglate

Hexyl tiglate is a chemical ester known by several synonyms including hexyl 2-butenoate and hexyl crotonate. It has a molecular formula of C₁₁H₂₀O₂ and is recognized for its fresh, green, and herbal odor characteristics. This compound is a member of the class of esters, commonly used in flavor and fragrance applications due to its distinctive sensory qualities. Hexyl tiglate is naturally present in various plant-derived essential oils, such as chamomile oil from Morocco and several types of lavender oils. Its chemical identity is cataloged under CAS number 16930-96-4, and it is listed in chemical databases including PubChem. The compound is generally obtained by esterification processes involving 2-methyl-2-butenoic acid and hexanol, yielding a clear liquid valued for its performance in aromatic formulations.

Hexyl tiglate occurs naturally in several essential oils, including chamomile oil from Morocco (Cladanthus mixtus oil), gardenia extracts, various lavandin oils (abrialis and grosso varieties), spike lavender oils from France and Spain, and trace amounts in witch hazel leaf oil (Hamamelis virginiana). It is primarily applied as a flavoring and fragrance agent, contributing fresh, green, and herbal notes to product formulations. The compound is used in flavorings that simulate green vegetable or herbaceous characteristics, such as in artichoke, asparagus, carrot seed, nut, pea, pear, and various vegetable flavors. Its olfactory profile suits fragrance compositions that require natural green leafy, floral, or fresh clean aromas. Hexyl tiglate is governed under IFRA (International Fragrance Association) standards (Global), which recommend usage limits to ensure safety in fragrance concentrates, with a typical maximum of 8% concentration allowed. This regulatory compliance supports its safe incorporation in cosmetic and personal care products.

Hexyl tiglate is a moderately lipophilic ester with an estimated log P value of approximately 4.3, indicating good solubility in lipophilic solvents such as alcohol, dipropylene glycol, and paraffin oil. Its water solubility is very low but measurable at around 15 mg/L at 25 °C. The compound exhibits a specific gravity ranging from 0.889 to 0.899 at 25 °C and a refractive index between 1.439 and 1.448 at 20 °C. It has a flash point of 107 °C (226 °F) measured by the Tag Closed Cup method, suggesting reasonable stability under normal handling conditions. The acid value is low, with a maximum of 1 KOH/g, implying minimal acidity and degradation. Vapor pressure is low at 0.052 mmHg at 25 °C, affecting volatility and substantivity. Proper storage in a cool, dry, light-protected environment extends its shelf life beyond 24 months. These properties influence formulation decisions, favoring its use in products requiring stable, moderately volatile, green aromatic notes.

(IUPAC):	Atomic Weights of the Elements 2011 (pdf)
Videos:	The Periodic Table of Videos
tgsc:	Atomic Weights use for this web site
(IUPAC):	Periodic Table of the Elements
HMDB (The Human Metabolome Database):	HMDB36211
FooDB:	FDB015069
Export Tariff Code:	2916.19.6000
Typical G.C.
VCF-Online:	VCF Volatile Compounds in Food
ChemSpider:	View

Safety information

European information :
Most important hazard(s):
Xi - Irritant
R 36/38 - Irritating to skin and eyes. S 02 - Keep out of the reach of children. S 24/25 - Avoid contact with skin and eyes. S 26 - In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. S 36 - Wear suitable protective clothing.
Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
Skin irritation (Category 2), H315 Eye irritation (Category 2A), H319 Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure (Category 3), Respiratory system, H335
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Signal word	Warning
Hazard statement(s)
H315 - Causes skin irritation H319 - Causes serious eye irritation H335 - May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statement(s)
P261 - Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 - Wash skin thouroughly after handling. P271 - Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 - Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P302 + P352 - IF ON SKIN: wash with plenty of soap and water. P304 + P340 - IF INHALED: Remove victim to fresh air and Keep at rest in a position comfortable for breathing. P305 + P351 + P338 - IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P312 - Call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician if you feel unwell. P321 - Specific treatment (see supplemental first aid instructions on this label). P332 + P313 - IF SKIN irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention. P337 + P313 - IF eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. P362 - Take off contaminated clothing and wash before reuse. P403 + P233 - Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P405 - Store locked up. P501 - Dispose of contents/ container to an approved waste disposal plant.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
oral-rat LD50 > 5000 mg/kg Dispose of contents/ container to an approved waste disposal plant.
Dermal Toxicity:
skin-rabbit LD50 > 5000 mg/kg Dispose of contents/ container to an approved waste disposal plant.
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
flavor and fragrance agents
IFRA Code of Practice Notification of the 49th Amendment to the IFRA Code of Practice
Recommendation for hexyl tiglate usage levels up to:
	8.0000 % in the fragrance concentrate.

Safety references

EPI System: View

EPA Substance Registry Services (TSCA):16930-96-4

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary :28151

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

WGK Germany:3

hexyl 2-methylbut-2-enoate

Chemidplus:0016930964

RTECS:GQ5780000 for cas# 16930-96-4