Appearance clear viscous liquid | ||
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Related aldehydes | ||
Lilial (a trade name for lily aldehyde, also known as lysmeral) is a chemical compound commonly used as a perfume in cosmetic preparations and laundry powders, often under the name butylphenyl methylpropional. It is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde.
Contents
Synthesis
Lilial may be prepared via a number of routes but is typically produced via a crossed-aldol condensation between para-tert-butylbenzaldehyde and propanal, followed by hydrogenation of the intermediate alkene. This produces a racemic product.
Properties
Lilial is commonly produced and sold as a racemic mixture, however testing has indicated that the different enantiomers of the compound do not contribute equally to its odor. The R-enantiomer has a strong floral odor, reminiscent of cyclamen or lily of the valley; whereas the S-enantiomer possesses no strong odor.
Like most aldehydes Lilial is not long term stable and tends to slowly oxidize on storage.
Safety
It can sometimes act as an allergen and may cause contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals.