2,3,5-trimethyl-6-isoamyl pyrazine

2,3,5-trimethyl-6-isoamyl pyrazine is a heterocyclic organic compound in the pyrazine family with the molecular formula C₁₂H₂₀N₂. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid exhibiting a distinctive anise-like and floral aroma profile. This compound is referenced under several synonyms including 2,3,5-trimethyl-6-(3-methylbutyl)pyrazine and trimethyl isoamyl pyrazine. It is recognized for its use as a flavoring agent that imparts characteristic aromatic notes in food products. Structural and compositional details are accessible through chemical databases such as PubChem. Commercially, it is typically obtained by synthetic routes designed to produce pyrazine derivatives used in flavor and fragrance industries.

This pyrazine derivative is not commonly identified as a natural metabolite but has notable application in flavoring due to its distinct aromatic properties. It is primarily used to provide an anise-like, floral note in various food formulations. The compound’s usage is governed by standards such as FEMA (US), where its designation supports its safe incorporation as a flavoring ingredient. While it is not intended for fragrance applications, its physicochemical stability allows it to be incorporated in diverse edible products to enhance sensory appeal. Its flavor profile makes it valuable in the modification of processed foods and flavor blends.

2,3,5-trimethyl-6-isoamyl pyrazine exhibits a moderate boiling point range between 259 and 260°C at atmospheric pressure (760 mm Hg), suggesting its stability under common formulation conditions. Its vapor pressure at 25°C is low (0.021 mmHg), indicative of limited volatility at room temperature. The flash point is approximately 207°F (97°C), which denotes a moderate flammability hazard when heated. The compound has an estimated logP value around 3.1, signifying moderate lipophilicity and solubility in organic solvents such as alcohol, yet poor solubility in water, with a trace solubility of about 17.65 mg/L at 25°C. These properties influence its handling and formulation, particularly favoring applications requiring stability and compatibility with organic media.

	2,3,5-trimethyl-6-(3-methylbutyl)pyrazine
NIST Chemistry WebBook:	Search Inchi
Pubchem (cid):	517762
Pubchem (sid):	10502305

(IUPAC):	Atomic Weights of the Elements 2011 (pdf)
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(IUPAC):	Periodic Table of the Elements
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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:
flavoring agents
Recommendation for 2,3,5-trimethyl-6-isoamyl pyrazine usage levels up to:
	not for fragrance use.

Safety references

EPI System: View

AIDS Citations:Search

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Toxicology Citations:Search

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary :517762

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

2,3,5-trimethyl-6-(3-methylbutyl)pyrazine