What Is Cyclozonal?
Cyclozonal is a modern aroma chemical created by DSM-Firmenich to add a crisp aquatic nuance to fragrances. Although DSM-Firmenich owns the trademark, independent suppliers often offer generic versions under similar names so perfumers can usually source it from several distributors.
The molecule begins its life as upcycled turpentine collected from the paper industry. Alpha and beta pinene are separated from the turpentine then reshaped through a sequence of green-chemistry reactions until the finished Cyclozonal appears. The final product is a clear mobile liquid that pours easily at room temperature and blends cleanly with most solvents and bases.
Perfumers reach for Cyclozonal whenever they want an instant splash of oceanic freshness. It shows up in fine fragrances, soaps, shampoos, detergents and even candles so it is widely used rather than niche. Once opened and stored correctly the material retains its quality for roughly two to three years before its brightness starts to fade.
On the cost scale Cyclozonal sits comfortably in the mid range. It is not a bargain-basement material but it is also not priced like a rare natural extract which makes it accessible for both mass market products and prestige blends.
Cyclozonal’s Scent Description
Cyclozonal is classed inside the aquatic family. On a blotter the first impression is a gust of clean sea air backed by airy aldehydes that sparkle for several minutes. Underneath, a cool watery accord slowly reveals soft lily of the valley facets that keep the profile floral rather than briny.
The top notes are the bright ozonic and citric lift it gives as soon as the strip is waved. After about ten minutes the heart transitions into those gentle muguet petals with a hint of green pine that nods to its softwood origin. The material has virtually no heavy base note of its own which means it finishes light and transparent without lingering sweetness.
Cyclozonal behaves mainly as a top to mid note booster. It flashes quickly yet hangs on long enough to connect opening citrus notes to the floral core. Projection is moderate so it will radiate a refreshing aura without filling a room. On a smelling strip the scent stays detectable for close to twenty-four hours before it disappears completely which is impressive for such an airy molecule.
How & Where To Use Cyclozonal
Perfumers reach for Cyclozonal when they want a transparent splash of watery freshness that feels more natural than older marine molecules. It excels as the main ozone note in modern aquatic accords or as a booster for citrus and light florals that need extra lift. A drop can brighten bergamot grapefruit or lemon while a slightly higher dose lends a dewy sheen to muguet jasmine or rose.
Typical usage sits between traces and 2 % in fine fragrance though some functional products will tolerate up to 5 % if a strong clean impact is desired. At 0.1 % it reads as a gentle wet air nuance. Around 0.5 % the aldehydic sparkle becomes more obvious and the ingredient starts to project. At 2 % the material dominates the top and early heart so balancing notes like hedione calone or citrus terpenes help keep the blend harmonious.
Over-use can push a composition into sharp metallic territory and mask subtler facets such as soft florals or musks. In soaps and detergents excess Cyclozonal may clash with fatty or ambery bases resulting in a discordant note. Always run stability tests in the intended matrix because high pH cleaners can dull the ozone effect over time.
Cyclozonal dissolves easily in ethanol dipropylene glycol or standard fragrance oils so no special solvents are needed. A quick premix at 10 % makes weighing easier and reduces dosing errors. The material is stable under normal lab conditions but keep it away from strong acids or bases during compounding to preserve its fresh profile.
When layering with other ozonic ingredients start low then build gradually. The molecule pairs well with green notes such as cis-3-hexenol or galbanum and soft musks that stretch its airy feel. In candles use a lower percentage to prevent burn performance issues as the flashpoint is adequate yet the scent can thin wax blends if overloaded.
Safely Using Cyclozonal
Safe handling begins with basic lab practice. Always dilute Cyclozonal before smelling it. Avoid sniffing straight from the bottle and work in a well-ventilated area to limit inhalation. Gloves and safety glasses protect skin and eyes from accidental splashes.
Like many aroma chemicals Cyclozonal can cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If you experience redness itching or any discomfort rinse the area with plenty of water and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Consult a healthcare professional before working with any fragrance material if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Brief exposure to low concentrations is generally safe but prolonged or high level exposure can lead to headaches respiratory irritation or sensitization. Use fume hoods or local exhaust when compounding large batches and keep containers closed when not in use to minimize vapors.
Store the material in a cool dry place away from direct light and ignition sources. Label opened containers with the date and aim to use contents within 12 months for best quality. Dispose of waste or spills following local regulations for non-hazardous organic liquids never pour leftovers down the drain.
Always consult the latest Safety Data Sheet from your supplier before each project. Regulations evolve and limits may change so check IFRA guidelines for the current maximum level permitted in your product category and update formulations accordingly.
How To Store & Dispose of Cyclozonal
Maintaining Cyclozonal at its freshest starts with temperature control. A cool dark cupboard works for most users, yet storing the bottle in a refrigerator set around 4 °C can add several months to its shelf life. Whatever location you pick keep it away from direct sunlight heating pipes or hot equipment that could speed up oxidation.
Air contact is the main enemy of watery materials, so aim to keep containers as full as possible. Transfer leftovers to smaller bottles once the level drops below half. Choose glass or aluminum bottles fitted with polycone caps that form a tight seal. Dropper tops often let air creep back in and should be avoided except for very short term lab trials.
Label every container the moment you fill it. Note the ingredient name, CAS number, date opened and any hazard pictograms required by your local regulations. Clear labels help everyone in the workspace spot the material quickly and handle it correctly.
Store neat Cyclozonal and any blends away from acids, bases or strong oxidizers. If you keep a 10 % dilution in ethanol give it its own bottle rather than topping up the neat supply. Isolate scented strips or soap bases containing Cyclozonal so they do not perfume surrounding samples.
When the time comes to dispose of small quantities, treat Cyclozonal as a non-hazardous organic liquid. Absorb spills with sand or vermiculite then place the waste in a sealed bag before handing it to your local chemical drop-off. Never pour unused material down drains since aquatic life can be sensitive even to biodegradable fragrance compounds. Larger volumes should go to a licensed solvent recycler or approved incineration facility.
Summary
Cyclozonal is a liquid aquatic aroma chemical from DSM-Firmenich that delivers a crisp ozone opening followed by watery floral nuances. Its clean airy style lets perfumers boost citrus notes or build modern marine accords without the heavy punch of older molecules.
The ingredient is strong yet versatile, working in fine fragrance, shampoo, soap, detergents, cleaners and candles. Stability is good for about two years unopened though refrigeration and tight caps help preserve freshness once the bottle is cracked.
Cyclozonal sits in the mid price range making it accessible for prestige scents and mass products alike. Formulators should watch dosage to avoid metallic sharpness and run stability checks in high pH bases.
Commercial users can source it directly from DSM-Firmenich in drum or pail sizes. Hobbyists and small brands will find smaller amounts through specialty perfume suppliers or generic manufacturers that match the CAS number.