What Is Oxaspirane-819?
Oxaspirane-819 is a synthetic aroma molecule created by International Flavors & Fragrances, usually shortened to IFF. The name itself comes from its bicyclic chemical framework, which contains both an oxygen bridge and a spiro junction.
Although IFF developed and trademarked the material, several third-party suppliers now offer comparable grades under alternative trade names. These generics typically match the analytical profile yet their odor purity can vary slightly from the original.
Commercial production starts with a light terpene feedstock derived from pine or citrus biomass. Through a series of catalytic rearrangements the feed is converted into the compact spiro-ether structure that defines Oxaspirane-819. Final purification yields a water-clear liquid with a light viscosity similar to vegetable oil.
The ingredient sees regular use in modern fragrance work, especially in functional products where a crisp herbal lift is needed. It is not as ubiquitous as classic mint oils yet most major fragrance houses keep it on the shelf.
When stored correctly the material keeps its full strength for around three to five years before the top notes begin to lose sparkle. Cost sits in the mid tier for specialty aroma chemicals so it is generally viewed as affordable for both fine fragrance and household applications.
Oxaspirane-819’s Scent Description
Perfumers slot Oxaspirane-819 into the herbal family, though its profile also brushes against minty and aromatic territories.
Off a blotter the first impression is an energetic mentholic burst that recalls crushed cedar leaf mixed with fresh lavender sprigs. Within seconds a camphor-like chill rises, lending a cool breeze effect without drifting into medicinal territory.
As the note settles a soft wood nuance appears, hinting at pencil shavings and dried rosemary. This transition keeps the material from feeling one-dimensional and helps it blend smoothly with florals, woods or citrus accords.
Oxaspirane-819 behaves mainly as a middle note. It lifts quickly, stays vibrant for two to three hours then quietly hands the baton to deeper woods or musks underneath.
Projection is moderate, giving a clear herbal aura without overwhelming surrounding notes. Longevity on skin or fabric is respectable at six to eight hours, aided by its balanced volatility and log P value that keeps some of the molecule anchored after the initial flash.
How & Where To Use Oxaspirane-819
Perfumers reach for Oxaspirane-819 when a blend needs a crisp medicinal herbal accent that still feels rounded. It slips neatly into lavender fougères, modern aromatics and fresh woody themes where it reinforces cedar leaf, rosemary or mint notes without turning the whole accord into mouthwash. Used at trace levels it gives a subtle lift to florals like rose or muguet by cutting sweetness and adding air.
At around 0.2-0.5% of the finished concentrate the material acts as a clear middle-note modifier, fusing top and heart together. Between 1-2% it becomes noticeable as a distinct camphoraceous stripe that pushes freshness in masculine colognes, sport scents and shower-gel accords. Formulators rarely exceed 3-5% because the cooling facet can flatten complexity and overshadow delicate nuances.
Concentration strongly shapes perception. Below 0.1% the molecule whispers of garden herbs then fades into the woodwork. From 1% upward the minty edge blooms, reading almost like eucalyptus. Beyond 3% consumers may report a medicinal vibe reminiscent of cough rubs which is seldom the goal in fine fragrance.
Oxaspirane-819 shows very good stability in alcohol and fabric softener bases so it withstands most compounding processes without special antioxidants. In high pH powder detergents longevity drops to moderate so additional fixatives may be needed. The ingredient is not readily biodegradable which limits its appeal in eco-label projects though it remains popular in mainstream products.
Before weighing, pre-dilute to 10% in ethanol or DEP to make dosing simpler and to judge odour impact more accurately. The liquid is water-clear but slightly viscous at cool room temperatures so warming the stock bottle to 25 °C can speed pouring. Clean glassware promptly; once dried the residue can cling and skew later trials.
Safely Using Oxaspirane-819
Work with Oxaspirane-819 the same way you would handle any potent aroma material. Always dilute before smelling so you evaluate character, not solvent shock. Avoid sniffing straight from the bottle because undiluted vapours can numb your nose and mask subtleties. Set up in a well-ventilated space or under a fume hood to keep airborne levels low. Wear nitrile gloves and safety glasses to prevent accidental skin or eye contact.
Most users handle the material without issue yet some individuals may experience irritation or sensitisation after repeated exposure. If you have sensitive skin or respiratory conditions introduce the molecule gradually and monitor for discomfort. Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before prolonged work with fragrance chemicals.
Short sessions with low concentrations are unlikely to pose major health risks though prolonged high-level exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness or dermal reactions. Keep bottles tightly sealed when not in use and wipe spills quickly to minimise vapor build-up.
Consult the supplier’s latest Safety Data Sheet for full toxicological and first-aid details and review it regularly since classifications can change as new research emerges. Follow current IFRA standards when setting final usage levels in consumer products to ensure regulatory compliance and consumer safety.
How To Store & Dispose of Oxaspirane-819
Oxaspirane-819 is quite stable at room temperature yet a refrigerator set around 5-10 °C can stretch its usable life by slowing oxidation. If cold storage is not an option a shelf in a cool dark cupboard away from heaters or sunny windows works well. Sudden spikes above 30 °C can dull the scent so try to keep the bottle in a steady spot.
Choose containers that seal tightly. Amber glass with a polycone cap gives the best barrier while still letting you check the fill level. Dropper tops and snap lids often let air creep in so avoid them for both the neat material and dilutions. When possible top up bottles or transfer the remainder to a smaller vial so less oxygen sits above the liquid.
Label everything clearly with the ingredient name, CAS number and the date it was first opened. Add simple hazard icons or phrases from the safety data sheet so anyone picking up the bottle knows what precautions to take. Keep the label dry and legible by wiping any drips right away.
Spills wipe up easily with paper towel followed by a quick rinse of the area with soapy water. Store used wipes in a sealed bag until you can place them in a chemical waste bin. Never pour leftover Oxaspirane-819 down the drain. The molecule is classed as non-biodegradable so letting it enter waterways can harm aquatic life.
For small unwanted amounts, mix the liquid with cat litter or another absorbent, seal the mixture in a sturdy bag then dispose of it as hazardous household waste according to local rules. Larger volumes should go to a licensed waste contractor who can incinerate or treat the material safely.
Summary
Oxaspirane-819 is a clear liquid aroma chemical from IFF that delivers a punchy herbal mint-camphor note with hints of cedar leaf and lavender. Perfumers slot it into the heart of fougères, fresh woods and sporty colognes where it adds lift and clean energy without overpowering the blend.
The material sits in the mid price bracket and offers good stability in alcohol and fabric conditioners though performance falls a little in high pH powders. Careful dosing is key since too much can tip a fragrance into medicinal territory.
Its popularity stems from the way it bridges classic lavender styles and modern fresh accords giving formulators a versatile herbal tool. Hobbyists can pick up small bottles from specialist resellers while commercial houses can source drums direct from IFF or from generic producers that match the spec.
Keep an eye on its non-biodegradable status when planning eco claims store it well sealed in a cool place and dispose of any waste responsibly to enjoy this useful ingredient with minimal hassle.