trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal

trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal is a compound characterized by a musty, sweet maple odor, used primarily as an enhancer in tobacco-related products.

General Material Description

trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal is an organic compound classified as an unsaturated aldehyde with the structural formula reflecting two trans-configured double bonds. It presents a distinct musty and sweet maple odor quality, identifiable at low concentrations such as 0.10% in propylene glycol. Known also by its synonyms (E)-2-ethylidene-(E)-3-hexenal and 2-ethylidene-(E)-3-hexenal, this compound is referenced chemically in databases such as PubChem. Its origin is typically synthetic or derived from unsaturated lipid oxidation pathways; however, it does not naturally occur in significant quantities. Due to limited use, it primarily serves in research contexts rather than commercial fragrance or flavor compositions.

Occurrence, Applicability & Potential Uses

trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal does not have a widespread biological occurrence but may be related structurally to aldehyde intermediates in lipid metabolism. Its main application lies as an odor enhancer in tobacco products, where it contributes to the characteristic musty and sweet maple aroma profiles valued in some tobacco blends. While it is not approved or used commercially in fragrances or food flavors, it remains an informational reference in chemical databases. The compound’s use considerations are governed by relevant chemical safety guidelines such as REACH (European Union), emphasizing its limited regulatory authorization and non-typical role in consumer product manufacturing.

Physico-Chemical Properties Summary

trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal possesses physicochemical properties typical of unsaturated aldehydes, including distinct volatility and a reactive conjugated diene system. Its musty and sweet maple odor suggests specific interactions with olfactory receptors that depend on its molecular geometry. The trans configuration of double bonds influences its chemical stability and odor profile. These properties affect its formulation behavior, where it exhibits moderate solubility in common solvents like propylene glycol. The compound is relatively low in hazard classification, with no identified GHS hazards under OSHA HCS standards, but its limited toxicological data restrain broad application. Its chemical profile suggests susceptibility to oxidation or polymerization under certain conditions.

FAQ

What is trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal and what are its main characteristics?

trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal is an unsaturated aldehyde featuring two trans-configured double bonds, giving it a unique molecular structure. It is recognized for its musty and sweet maple odor, detectable at low concentrations in solvents such as propylene glycol. Although it has chemical synonyms like (E)-2-ethylidene-(E)-3-hexenal, this compound is primarily studied for informational purposes rather than commercial fragrance or flavor use.

Where is trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal used and what are its potential applications?

The compound is mainly used as an odor enhancer in tobacco-related applications due to its distinctive odor profile. It contributes a harsh musty sweet maple note in such contexts. It lacks approval for use in fragrances and flavorings and generally appears in research or informational contexts rather than consumer products. Regulatory frameworks such as REACH (European Union) reflect its limited use and guide proper handling where applicable.

What safety and regulatory information is available for trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal?

trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal currently has no classification under the Globally Harmonized System according to OSHA HCS regulations, indicating no officially recognized hazards. Oral, dermal, and inhalation toxicity data have not been determined comprehensively. Its use is restricted solely to informational contexts with no authorized applications in fragrance or flavor formulations. Recommendations for usage levels also explicitly exclude fragrance and flavor uses, reflecting its provisional safety status and regulatory limitations.

US / EU / FDA / JECFA / FEMA / Scholar / Patents

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Literature & References

None found

Publications by US Patents
3,970,701 - Lower alkenals

Other Information

General Material Information

Trivial Name	trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal
Short Description	(E)-2-ethylidene-(E)-3-hexenal
Synonyms	(E)-2-ethylidene-(E)-3-hexenal 2-ethylidene-(E)-3-hexenal

PhysChem Properties

Material listed in food chemical codex

Organoleptic Properties

Odor Type: Musty
musty, sweet, maple
General comment	At 0.10 % in propylene glycol. harsh musty sweet maple

Potential Uses

Applications	information only not used for fragrances or flavors
Odor purposes	Tobacco
Other purposes	Enhancer

Safety Information

Safety information


Hazards identification

Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements

Pictogram

Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
information only not used for fragrances or flavors
Recommendation for trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal usage levels up to:
	not for fragrance use.

Recommendation for trans-2-ethylidene-trans-3-hexenal flavor usage levels up to:
	not for flavor use.

Safety references

None found