FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene (CAS: 6143-33-5)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene is a synthetic compound with the CAS number 6143-33-5. Its IUPAC name is 1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene. The molecular formula is C13H14, and it has a molecular weight of 170.25 g/mol. This compound is characterized by a polycyclic structure, which may influence its odor properties due to the rigidity and spatial arrangement of its carbon framework. The compound does not have a FEMA number or other identifiers like FL or CoE numbers. Its structure suggests potential relevance in fragrance applications due to its stable, non-polar nature.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene is noted for its unique sensory attributes. It typically exhibits a mild, woody odor with subtle nuances that can be described as earthy or slightly balsamic. The intensity of its odor is moderate, making it suitable as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. The diffusion is relatively low, which suggests its use in formulations where a subtle, lingering presence is desired. Specific taste or odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory role is primarily as a modifier that enhances the complexity of a fragrance blend.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene is not known to occur naturally and is typically synthesized through chemical processes. Its formation does not involve natural pathways such as the Maillard reaction or fermentation. As a synthetic compound, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under current regulatory frameworks. Its production involves controlled chemical synthesis, ensuring consistency and purity for use in specialized applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
The use of 1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene in flavor applications is limited due to its synthetic origin and specific sensory profile. It may be employed in niche flavor systems where a woody or earthy background note is desired. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented, and formulators should proceed with caution, considering industry-typical practices. Stability under various conditions such as heat, pH, and oxidation is generally good, but specific data on degradation products or interactions with other flavor components is limited.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, 1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene is valued for its woody and earthy notes. It is used in fragrance families such as woody, chypre, and fougère. Its role is often as a modifier or background note, contributing to the overall complexity and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are not explicitly documented, but it is generally used at low levels due to its moderate intensity. It contributes primarily to the middle and base notes of a fragrance, offering stability and longevity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, 1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene does not have explicit FEMA GRAS status for flavor use. In the European Union, it is not listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, and its use in flavors is not harmonized. The United Kingdom follows similar guidelines post-Brexit. In Asia, specific regulatory information for Japan, China, and ASEAN countries is limited, and formulators should verify local regulations. In Latin America, including Brazil and MERCOSUR, regulatory status is not clearly defined, necessitating consultation with local authorities.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Safety data for 1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene is limited. Oral exposure data, such as ADI or MSDI, is not available, and formulators should consider industry-typical practices and consult toxicology experts. Dermal exposure considerations for fragrance use include potential irritation or sensitization, although specific IFRA guidelines are not available. Inhalation exposure is a consideration due to its volatility, and occupational safety measures should be in place. The risk profile may differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use requiring more stringent safety assessments.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene is valuable for its unique woody and earthy notes, offering depth and complexity to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other woody and balsamic materials, enhancing the overall olfactory experience. Common formulation pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or unbalanced fragrance. It is often under-used in formulations seeking subtlety and nuance. Formulators should consider its stability and compatibility with other ingredients to maximize its potential.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 1,4-methano-1,4,4a,9a-tetrahydrofluorene is limited, with well-established sensory profiles but gaps in toxicology and regulatory information. Industry-typical practices guide its use, but formulators should be aware of potential regulatory ambiguities and consult authoritative sources for the latest updates.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1–9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges (not explicitly available, noted as industry-typical)
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-04-03 19:31:57 GMT (p2)