Product Name

ABIETIC ACID / Rosin Acid / Sylvic Acid – Thickener

CAS No.: 514-10-3

🟢 Difficulty: Intermediate

⏳ Lasting: High

🌸 Note: Base / Functional Material

Description

Abietic Acid is a naturally derived resin acid and major constituent of rosin, obtained from pine and related resin sources. It has the molecular formula C₂₀H₃₀O₂ and a molecular weight of approximately 302.46. Commercial abietic acid is typically supplied as a yellow to yellow-brown resinous solid, crystals or chunks.

Unlike conventional aroma chemicals, Abietic Acid is primarily valued for its functional properties rather than its odor. Pure material is described as virtually odorless, while commercial material may have a faint, pleasant resinous odor. Its resinous nature makes it useful where additional body, structure, tack and viscosity are desired in suitable formulations.

For fragrance-related applications, it can be relevant to incense, resinous compositions, solid fragrance systems and specialty perfumery preparations where a rosin-derived structuring material is appropriate. It is also an important starting material for producing resin esters and other rosin derivatives used in coatings, adhesives, soaps and related industries.

Odor Profile

• Virtually odorless in pure form

• Faint resinous

• Pine-resin nuance

• Slightly balsamic

• Warm

• Natural resin character

Recommended Formulation Level (Educational guideline only)

• Trace: 0.10–0.50%

• General use: 0.50–5.00%

• High-impact / structuring applications: 5.00–20.00%

These are formulation guidelines for perfumers and are not IFRA limits.

Works Well With

• Pine-derived resins

• Rosin esters

• Beeswax

• Microcrystalline wax

• Paraffin wax

• Natural resins

• Labdanum

• Benzoin

• Frankincense

• Myrrh

• Patchouli

• Woody fragrance materials

Common Applications

• Incense

• Solid Fragrance

• Resinous Fragrance Systems

• Soap

• Candles

• Specialty Fragrance Formulations

• Adhesives and Coatings

• Rosin-Based Products

Perfumers' Tip

Abietic Acid should be thought of primarily as a functional resinous structuring material, rather than a conventional odor-active aroma chemical. Its limited odor makes it useful when physical body is more important than adding a strong fragrance note.

When developing a formulation, evaluate its compatibility and solubility carefully. Abietic Acid is insoluble in water but soluble in several organic solvents, including alcohols, acetone and ethers.

Formulation note: Abietic Acid is associated with colophony/rosin, whose oxidation products can be allergenic. Appropriate supplier SDS and regulatory documentation should therefore be reviewed for the intended application.