The Bicyclic Monoterpene Ketone for Premium Fragrances, Flavor Enhancement, and Neuroprotective Therapeutics: Fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5)

Fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5), also known as 1,3,3-trimethyl-2-norbornanone, 1,3,3-trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one, or fenchane-2-one, is a bicyclic monoterpene ketone with the molecular formula C₁₀H₁₆O and a molecular weight of 152.23 g/mol. Its molecular structure features a bornane-like bicyclic carbon skeleton with a ketone group at the 2-position, creating a rigid, camphoraceous framework that is responsible for its distinctive odor profile and biological activities. Fenchone occurs naturally as two enantiomers: (+)-fenchone is the principal isomer in sweet and bitter fennel essential oils (Foeniculum vulgare), where it can constitute up to 20% of the volatile oil, while (−)-fenchone predominates in cedar leaf and wormwood oils.

Fenchone typically appears as a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid with a characteristic camphor-like odor and a slightly bitter taste. It has a boiling point of 193–194°C, a density of 0.948 g/cm³, a refractive index of 1.462, and a flash point of 64°C. The compound is practically insoluble in water but soluble in ethanol and common organic solvents. It is typically supplied at ≥98% purity (GC) and should be stored in a cool, dry place away from ignition sources, protected from light and moisture.

Fenchone is a versatile monoterpene ketone that serves as a key ingredient in the fragrance and flavor industries, an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent in pharmaceutical research, and a chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis. Its unique camphoraceous odor profile makes it invaluable in fine fragrances, where it bridges citrus top notes with woody bases in fougère compositions. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important monoterpene ketone.

Key Properties and Reactivity Profile

Fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5) is a bicyclic monoterpene ketone whose value derives from its unique camphoraceous structure and chiral properties.

Key physicochemical parameters include:

• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₆O
• Molecular Weight: 152.23 g/mol
• CAS Number: 1195-79-5
• EC Number: 214-804-6
• MDL Number: MFCD00070689
• Synonyms: 1,3,3-Trimethyl-2-norbornanone; 1,3,3-Trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one; Fenchane-2-one
• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow oily liquid
• Purity: ≥98% (GC); ≥99% available
• Boiling Point: 193–194°C
• Density: 0.948 g/cm³
• Refractive Index: 1.462
• Flash Point: 64°C
• Solubility: Practically insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol and organic solvents
• Storage: Cool, dry place away from ignition sources, protected from light and moisture
• SMILES: CC1(C)C2CCC(C)(C2)C1=O
• InChIKey: LHXDLQBQYFFVNW-UHFFFAOYSA-N
• GHS Classification: Warning; H411 (Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects)
• WGK Germany: 2

The compound’s reactivity is defined by its ketone functional group and its rigid bicyclic carbon skeleton. The ketone group at the 2-position enables nucleophilic addition, reduction, and condensation reactions, making fenchone a versatile building block for chiral auxiliaries, ligands, and bioactive derivatives. The two stereocenters in the bicyclic framework give rise to the (+)- and (−)-enantiomers, each with distinct biological activities and applications. The (+)-enantiomer is a critical chiral reference standard for enantioselective GC/HPLC method development and serves as an enantiopure building block for asymmetric synthesis, including the development of CB2 ligand scaffolds that achieve Ki = 3.51 nM at the human CB2 receptor.

Core Application Fields and Demand

Market demand for fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5) is concentrated in four primary sectors: fragrance and flavor industries (approximately 45–50% of global consumption), pharmaceutical and nutraceutical research (approximately 25–30%), antimicrobial and personal care applications (approximately 15–20%), and chiral synthesis and analytical reference standards (approximately 10–15%). Its unique camphoraceous odor, chiral properties, and diverse biological activities serve as the core drivers of sustained demand growth.

In the fragrance and flavor industries, fenchone is a key ingredient in perfumes, fragrances, and food flavorings. Its fresh, camphoraceous scent with earthy-pine nuances makes it valuable for creating depth in perfumery. In fine fragrances, it is typically used at 0.5–2% (up to 5%), while in functional products such as masking agents, it is used at 0.1–0.5% (up to 1%). Fenchone bridges herbal and woody accords, contributing a distinctive aromatic quality that enhances overall aroma profiles. In the food industry, it is used as a flavoring agent, particularly in products that aim to replicate natural flavors such as mint or eucalyptus. It is a constituent of absinthe and the essential oil of fennel, and is found in many foods including Ceylon cinnamon, sweet basil, saffron, and dill.

In pharmaceutical and nutraceutical research, fenchone exhibits a remarkable range of biological activities. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, wound-healing, antidiarrheal, antifungal, antinociceptive, and bronchodilator activities. Recent studies have revealed its cerebroprotective potential: fenchone treatment significantly reduced cerebral infarction size and improved electroencephalography (EEG) signal magnitude in brain ischemia models, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic candidate for ischemic stroke management. Fenchone has also shown efficacy in ameliorating constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) through modulation of the SCF/c-Kit pathway and gut microbiota. Its antimicrobial activity against oral Candida albicans (MIC90 = 8 μg/mL; MFC = 16 μg/mL) positions it as a promising therapeutic alternative for oral candidiasis. Additionally, fenchone is explored for its potential in Alzheimer’s disease research as a BACE1 inhibitor screening candidate (IC50 = 117.0 ± 18.6 μM).

In antimicrobial and personal care applications, (−)-fenchone exhibits predominantly fungicidal activity, making it valuable in the development of natural antimicrobial formulations for oral care and dermatological applications. It is also effective in formulating natural insect repellents, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals in pest control products. Fenchone is used as a biochemical for acne treatment and in personal care products for its antimicrobial and skin-conditioning properties.

In chiral synthesis and analytical reference standards, fenchone serves as a critical reference standard for chiral analytical method development and as a versatile chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis. It is used in enantioselective GC/HPLC method development and as a natural product authentication marker for fennel essential oil. The compound is also used as a solvent in various organic reactions, providing a unique solvent environment that can enhance reaction outcomes compared to traditional solvents.

Major Market Participants

The global supply system for fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5) features a pattern of “specialized flavor and fragrance manufacturers, multinational research chemical distributors, and Chinese producers serving distinct market segments.” The global fenchone market is covered by comprehensive industry research reports providing data on manufacturers, consumers, production situation, supply and demand analysis, price analysis, and import/export situation across Europe, Asia, North America, and other regions, with forecasts extending through 2029.

In the global research and high-purity segment, key international suppliers include Alfa Chemistry (USA), BOC Sciences (USA), Triveni Chemicals (India), Flagresso G.m.b.H. (Austria), Simagchem Corporation (China), S.C.Terpena S.R.L. (Romania), and Haihang Industry Co., Ltd. (China). Moellhausen S.p.A. is a developer and manufacturer of flavor ingredients used in the food, beverage, and nutrition industry. TargetMol Chemicals Inc. offers (+)-fenchone at $31 for 100 mg and $70 for 500 mg. TCI Chemicals offers (+)-fenchone at >98.0% (GC) purity under product code F0163, with pricing of ¥190.00 for 5 mL and ¥525.00 for 25 mL from its Shanghai warehouse.

In the industrial and large-scale production segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as significant players in the global supply chain. XinChem is a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-purity fenchone from China, offering the compound with stringent quality standards for use in fragrance, flavor, pharmaceutical, and personal care applications. XinChem is a reputable China-based supplier and manufacturer, presenting high-quality fenchone sourced directly from state-of-the-art facilities. Other Chinese suppliers include Nanning Venusson Bio-Technology Co., Ltd., a manufacturer holding ISO9001, ISO22000, and Kosher certifications, Conier Chem & Pharma Limited, Hubei Yuancheng Saichuang Technology Co., Ltd., Alfa Chemistry, and Shanghai Aladdin Biochemical Technology (offering (+)-fenchone at 97% purity with pricing of ¥111 for 5 g and ¥375 for 20 g). Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades (typically 97–99%) and packaging options—from grams to multi-kilogram quantities—serving both domestic and export markets with competitive pricing.

Regional Market Dynamics

The global fenchone market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific (particularly China and India) and consumption distributed across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, aligned with the fragrance, flavor, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries in these regions.

The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a significant production hub for fenchone, with China and India hosting numerous manufacturers and suppliers including XinChem. The region’s competitive advantages include lower production costs, established chemical infrastructure, and proximity to rapidly growing fragrance, flavor, and pharmaceutical industries. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades and packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets. The growing fragrance, flavor, and pharmaceutical R&D sectors in China, India, Japan, and South Korea continue to drive regional consumption growth. TCI Chemicals maintains inventory in Shanghai and Tianjin, with the ability to ship from regional warehouses.

North America remains a key market for high-purity and research-grade fenchone, driven by demand from the fragrance industry, pharmaceutical companies, and academic research institutions. The United States hosts numerous flavor and fragrance companies, pharmaceutical research organizations, and biotechnology firms that require high-quality monoterpene ketones for product development and research. Alfa Chemistry and BOC Sciences serve the North American market with extensive distribution networks. The region’s well-established regulatory framework, including FDA oversight of flavor and fragrance ingredients, supports demand for high-grade fenchone.

Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements, including REACH registration, and a strong focus on quality and sustainability in fragrance, flavor, and pharmaceutical applications. European fragrance houses, flavor companies, and research institutions demand high-purity fenchone with comprehensive documentation. Flagresso G.m.b.H. (Austria) and S.C.Terpena S.R.L. (Romania) serve the European market, while Moellhausen S.p.A. (Italy) develops and manufactures flavor ingredients for the European food and beverage industry.

Japan represents a specialized market where fenchone is supplied by TCI Chemicals and other distributors for fragrance research, flavor development, and pharmaceutical applications.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

As a fragrance ingredient, flavoring agent, and research chemical, fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.

GHS classification and handling: Fenchone is classified with the signal word ”Warning” . The CLP classification under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 includes H411 (Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects). Precautionary statements include P273 (Avoid release to the environment), P391 (Collect spillage), and P501 (Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local, regional, national, and international regulations). The compound is classified as a combustible liquid with a flash point of 64°C. The WGK Germany classification is 2 (moderate hazard to water). The compound does not meet the PBT/vPvB criteria of REACH, Annex XIII, and is identified as having no endocrine disrupting properties.

Safety profile: Fenchone has GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status for food use. However, it has a moderate skin sensitization potential and should be used with awareness in professional applications. The compound should be stored in a cool, dry place away from ignition sources, protected from light and moisture. Personal protective equipment including lab gloves, safety glasses, and a lab coat should be worn during handling, and operations should be conducted in a well-ventilated environment.

Regulatory compliance: In the European Union, fenchone must comply with REACH registration requirements for import and use. The compound has an EC number of 214-804-6. Manufacturers and suppliers must provide comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and maintain appropriate documentation. The RIFM (Research Institute for Fragrance Materials) has completed a fragrance ingredient safety assessment for fenchone (CAS Registry Number 1195-79-5). In the United States, fenchone is recognized as GRAS for food use and is intended for research and development use only for non-food applications.

Transport information: Fenchone is not classified as hazardous material for DOT/IATA transport purposes under standard conditions. Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are nevertheless required for international shipping. The compound is typically shipped at ambient temperature with appropriate protection from light and moisture.

Future Outlook

The market outlook for fenchone is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. While the compound remains a relatively specialized monoterpene ketone, its unique camphoraceous odor, chiral properties, and diverse biological activities position it for steady growth in the coming years.

Key growth drivers include:

1. Expansion of the natural and clean-label fragrance market: The growing consumer preference for natural and naturally derived fragrance ingredients drives demand for fenchone as a nature-identical monoterpene ketone with a distinctive camphoraceous-herbal profile.
2. Growth in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical research: The expanding body of research on fenchone’s neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and gastroprotective activities creates new opportunities for therapeutic development, particularly in ischemic stroke, IBS-C, and oral candidiasis applications.
3. Increasing demand for natural antimicrobial agents: The growing consumer preference for natural and eco-friendly antimicrobial agents in personal care and oral care products supports demand for (−)-fenchone as a fungicidal and antimicrobial active.
4. Expansion of chiral synthesis and analytical applications: The increasing use of fenchone as a chiral reference standard and enantiopure building block in asymmetric synthesis, including CB2 ligand development, drives demand from pharmaceutical and biotechnology research.
5. Growth in the natural insect repellent market: The expanding market for natural and eco-friendly insect repellents creates new opportunities for fenchone as an effective alternative to synthetic chemicals.

Challenges and considerations:

• Environmental toxicity: The classification of fenchone as H411 (Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects) requires careful handling and disposal to prevent environmental contamination.
• Moderate skin sensitization potential: The compound’s moderate skin sensitization potential requires appropriate safety measures in fragrance and personal care applications.
• Limited scale: As a relatively specialized monoterpene ketone, the market for fenchone is smaller than that of commodity fragrance ingredients.
• Competition from synthetic alternatives: The market faces competition from synthetic camphoraceous compounds and other monoterpene ketones such as camphor and borneol.
• Enantiomer-specific requirements: The distinct biological activities and applications of (+)- and (−)-fenchone require careful enantiomer differentiation and quality control.

To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly enantiomeric purity and batch-to-batch consistency), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products in both enantiomeric forms, flexible packaging options, and technical support for fragrance, flavor, pharmaceutical, and personal care applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.

Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)

As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and monoterpene derivatives, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the fragrance, flavor, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality Fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for fragrance houses, flavor companies, pharmaceutical researchers, and personal care manufacturers seeking this versatile bicyclic monoterpene ketone.

1. Technical Advantages

Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its fenchone products. The production process incorporates established synthetic routes—including the oxidation of fenchyl alcohol and isolation from fennel essential oils—enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥98% (GC) and ≥99% (GC) available to meet diverse application requirements. Strict process control ensures consistent enantiomeric purity, minimal impurities, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable performance in fragrance formulation, flavor enhancement, and pharmaceutical research.

Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data (GC), optical rotation, and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s fenchone meets the stringent requirements of fragrance, flavor, pharmaceutical, and personal care applications.

2. Product Advantages

High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers fenchone with purity ≥98% (GC) and ≥99% (GC) available, ensuring optimal performance in fragrance formulation, flavor enhancement, and pharmaceutical research. The product’s high purity and consistent quality minimize the risk of unwanted side reactions and impurities, making it suitable for demanding applications in fine fragrance creation, natural flavor development, and bioactive research.

Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:

• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₆O
• Molecular Weight: 152.23 g/mol
• CAS Number: 1195-79-5
• Synonyms: 1,3,3-Trimethyl-2-norbornanone; Fenchane-2-one
• EC Number: 214-804-6
• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow oily liquid
• Purity: ≥98% (GC) / ≥99% (GC) available
• Boiling Point: 193–194°C
• Density: 0.948 g/cm³
• Refractive Index: 1.462
• Flash Point: 64°C
• Storage: Cool, dry place away from ignition sources, protected from light and moisture

Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities (5 mL, 25 mL, 100 mL) to industrial-scale packaging (500 mL, 1 L, 25 kg/drum) and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation with appropriate protection from light and moisture.

3. Application Fields

As a versatile bicyclic monoterpene ketone, Fenchone (CAS# 1195-79-5) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:

Fragrance and Flavor Industries:

• Key ingredient in fine fragrances and perfumes (0.5–2%, up to 5%)
• Flavoring agent in food products replicating mint or eucalyptus flavors
• Masking agent in functional products (0.1–0.5%, up to 1%)
• Constituent of absinthe and herbal liqueurs
• Component in fougère and woody-herbal fragrance compositions

Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Research:

• Neuroprotective agent for ischemic stroke research
• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent
• Therapeutic candidate for IBS-C via SCF/c-Kit pathway modulation
• Antimicrobial agent against oral Candida albicans
• BACE1 inhibitor screening for Alzheimer’s disease research
• Bronchodilator and antinociceptive agent

Antimicrobial and Personal Care Applications:

• Natural antimicrobial agent for oral care and dermatological applications
• Biochemical for acne treatment
• Natural insect repellent formulation
• Skin-conditioning agent in personal care products

Chiral Synthesis and Analytical Applications:

• Chiral reference standard for enantioselective GC/HPLC method development
• Enantiopure building block for asymmetric synthesis
• Natural product authentication marker for fennel essential oil
• Solvent in organic reactions

4. Service Support

Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of fragrance formulation, guidance on enantiomer selection, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help. Custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial quantities are available upon request.

Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including customs clearance and documentation, with appropriate protection from light and moisture for product stability.

Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, including REACH, FDA, and other regional regulations, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.

5. Reasons to Choose XinChem

• Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in monoterpene ketone synthesis and supply.
• Quality: Rigorous quality control, high purity (≥98% to ≥99%), and adherence to international standards.
• Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
• Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs, including both (+)- and (−)-enantiomers and custom packaging.
• Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.

Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!

Website: www.xinchem.com

Email: sales1@xinchem.com

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