Chemical Properties
2,4-dimethylphenylacetaldehyde is a colorless oily liquid. Insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol and
oils. Powerful green, but sweet and slightly floral title material.
odor of moderate tenacity.
Uses
This aldehyde has been suggested for use in perfumery as a modifier for Phenylacetaldehyde in floral fragrances, where a green note is
acceptable or desirable. It does not have the penetrating power of
Phenylacetaldehyde, but it is sweeter, more
floral, less gassy and more tenacious. It is
also somewhat more stable towards polymerization.
Preparation
(1) from 2,4-Dimcthyl phenylglycidic acid by
decarboxylation.
(2) from 2,4-Dimethylbenzaldehyde plus Ethyl
monochloroacetate via glycidate to the 2,4-dimethylphenylacetaldehyde.