Cinnamyl alcohol Identification

Cinnamyl alcohol is an organic compound that is found in esterified form in storax, balsam Peru and cinnamon leaves. It forms a white crystalline solid when pure, or a yellow oil when even slightly impure. It can be produced by the hydrolysis of storax. Cinnamyl alcohol has a distinctive odour described as "sweet, balsam, hyacinth, spicy, green, powdery, cinnamic" and is used in perfumery and as a deodorant.

1. Properties

Name:Cinnamyl alcohol

EINECS:203-212-3

Molecular Formula:C9H10O

Percent Composition: C 80.56%, H 7.51%, O 11.92%

Literature References: The trans-form occurs (in the esterified form) in storax and in balsam Peru, cinnamon leaves, hyacinth oil. Obtained by the alkaline hydrolysis of storax. Prepd synthetically by reducing cinnamal diacetate with iron filings and acetic acid; from cinnamaldehyde by Meerwein-Ponndorf reduction with aluminum isopropoxide:

CAS Registry Number:104-54-1

Synonyms:3-Phenyl-2-propene-1-ol; 3-Phenyl-2-propen-1-ol; Cinnamic alcohol

InChI:InChI=1/C9H10O/c10-8-4-7-9-5-2-1-3-6-9/h1-7,10H,8H2/b7-4+

Index of refraction: nD20 1.58190; nD33 1.57580

Appearance:colourless solid

Molecular Weight:134.18

Density:1.044

Boiling Point:258℃

Melting Point:31-35℃

Flash Point:126℃

Storage Temperature:Store at 32F (0C) in a standard flammable liquids storage warehouse, room, or cabinet. Special vented containers may be required. Separate from oxidizing materials, acids, and alkalies. Protect against damage. Keep in containers made of fluorosilicone glass or stainless steel in a standard combustible material store at or near 0C.

Solubility:1.8 g/L (20 oC) in water

Stability:Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.

Usage:Chemical intermediate for acetoacetic esters & acetoacetanilides, n,n-dialkylacetoacetamides, dyes, pharmaceuticals, for pigments & toners, food preservatives, insecticides, dicrotophos, & the fungicide, dehydroacetic acid.

Toxicity data: LD50 (g/kg): 2.0 orally in rats; >5.0 dermally in rabbits (Letizia)

2. Safety

The Cinnamyl alcohol is harmful if swallowed .It is irritating to eyes and skin .And it may cause sensitization by skin contact,so you need avoid contact with skin. When you use it ,wear suitable protective clothing ,gloves and eye/face protection.In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice.


Cinnamyl alcohol has been found to have a sensitising effect on some people and as a result is the subject of a Restricted Standard issued by IFRA (International Fragrance Association).