Levocitrile A Clean, Green, Precision-Lemon Molecule for Modern Fresh Compositions

🌿Levocitrile A Clean, Green, Precision-Lemon Molecule for Modern Fresh Compositions

Levocitrile is the optically pure (R)-isomer of Citronellyl Nitrile.It delivers a cleaner, sharper, and more natural lemon profile compared to the racemic material, while offering exceptional stability across all pH levels, including extreme alkaline and acidic systems.

This makes Levocitrile one of the most robust citrus aroma chemicals available for both fine fragrance and functional perfumery.

1. Olfactory Profile

CITRUS • GREEN • FRUITY • FLORAL

• Bright, fresh, and distinctly lemon-type

• Cleaner and more “focused” than standard Citronellyl Nitrile

• Subtle fruity nuances that round out harsh edges

• Green undertones lending naturality and realism

• Slightly floral lift supporting citrus blossoms

• Moderate diffusivity with a smooth bloom

Overall effect:A polished, modern citrus-green material ideal for enhancing clarity and freshness.

2. Chemical Identity

Property	Value
Chemical Name	(R)-3,7-Dimethyloct-6-enenitrile
Synonym	(3R)-3,7-Dimethyl-6-octenenitrile
Molecular Formula	C₁₀H₁₇N
Molecular Weight	151.26 g/mol
CAS Numbers	35931-93-2 / 51566-62-2
Appearance	Colorless liquid
GC Purity	≥ 99% as Citronellyl Nitrile
Flash Point	122 °C
CLogP	3.55
Optical Rotation	–12.0° to –6.0°
Vapor Pressure (25°C)	8.84 Pa

3. Performance Characteristics

Diffusion & Tenacity

• Diffusivity: Fairly diffusive (good bloom in the headspace)

• Blotter longevity:

  • > 6 hours

  • No significant persistence over days or weeks

Interpretation:Levocitrile is a top-to-heart material, contributing fresh radiance but not intended for long-term fixation.

Substantivity

Surface	Performance
Skin	Good (clear, smooth citrus lift)
Dry Fabric	Fair (reduced brightness)
Wet Fabric	Good
Hair	Good, with a soft and fresh diffusion

4. Extreme Stability Profile

Levocitrile’s pH resistance is outstanding, making it almost uniquely suitable for functional products where typical lemon materials degrade.

Stability in Various Applications

Application / pH	Stability
Fine Fragrance	Good
Fabric Softener (pH ~3)	Good
Antiperspirants (pH ~3.5)	Good
Toiletry Applications (pH ~6)	Good
Liquid Detergents (pH ~9)	Good
Soap (pH ~10)	Good
Powder Detergent (pH ~11)	Good
Bleach Systems (pH ~14)	Good

Key takeaway:Levocitrile is one of the few citrus molecules that maintains integrity, strength, and freshness from pH 3 to pH 14.

5. Origin

• Not naturally occurring

• Produced through controlled chemical synthesis

• Fully compliant with ISO 16128 “100% readily biodegradable” classification

6. Typical Use Level

• Up to 5% in perfume concentrates

• Effective even in low percentages due to purity and brightness

7. Applications in Perfumery

Fine Fragrance

• Fresh citrus colognes

• Green-floral compositions

• Modern clean musks with lemon lift

• Sport-type fragrances

Functional Fragrance

• Laundry detergents

• Dishwashing liquids

• Industrial cleaners

• Shampoos and shower gels

• Fabric conditioners

• Antiperspirants & deodorants

• Air care and home care products

8. Formulation Behavior

Levocitrile excels in:

• Adding precision, realism, and brightness to lemon top notes

• Replacing or reinforcing Citral/Citronellal without instability

• Supporting fresh-green accords

• Providing freshness without metallic harshness

• Maintaining citrus character even under harsh processing conditions

Pairs well with:

• Citronellal, Citral, Lemon Oil fractions

• Verbenone, Limonene, Grapefruit aldehydes

• Lyral-type floral materials

• Green notes (cis-3-Hexenol, Stemone)

• Light musks (Habanolide, Helvetolide)

• Floral boosters for citrus-petal effects

9. Summary Why Perfumers Use Levocitrile

✔ Cleaner and more natural lemon effect than the racemic mixture

✔ Exceptional pH stability — rare for citrus materials

✔ High purity = high brightness

✔ Versatile across fine & functional fragrance

✔ Provides clear, modern, green-citrus freshness

✔ Maintains integrity in detergents, soaps, and bleach systems

✔ Works as a top-note enhancer and green-floral modifier

This article was researched and written by Galbora.

Use of this content is permitted when citing the source.

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