Aldehyde C-12 MNA is a powerful synthetic aroma chemical used in perfumery. Despite the name “C-12,” it is not simply a straight-chain C12 aldehyde; C-12 MNA refers to 2-Methylundecanal. It has a strong fresh, aldehydic, citrusy, waxy, slightly metallic and clean odor. At low concentrations, it gives fragrances exceptional lift, diffusion and sparkling freshness. It is a very powerful fragrance material, so relatively small amounts can have a noticeable effect on a perfume.
Common Name: Aldehyde C-12 MNA
Chemical Name: 2-Methylundecanal
CAS No.: 110-41-8
Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₂₄O
Molecular Weight: 184.32 g/mol
Appearance: Typically colorless to pale-yellow liquid
Function: Aroma chemical / fragrance ingredient
Odour Profile: Aldehydic • Fresh • Citrus • Waxy • Clean • Metallic • Slightly Floral
Uses in Perfumery
Application Purpose
Aldehydic Fragrances: Provides the classic sparkling aldehydic character
Citrus Accords: Increases brightness, freshness and diffusion
Floral Fragrances: Gives rose, jasmine and other florals extra lift
Soapy/Clean Accords: Creates crisp, clean, freshly washed effects
Fresh Fragrances: Adds airiness and brilliance
Rose Accords: Adds sparkle and diffusion
Lily-of-the-Valley Type Accords: Enhances fresh floral character
Fine Fragrance: Used in perfumes, colognes and body fragrances
Soap & Body Wash: Provides clean, fresh fragrance effects
Haircare: Used in shampoo and conditioner fragrance compositions
It blends particularly well with bergamot, lemon, orange, rose, jasmine, neroli, lavender, lily-of-the-valley-type notes, musk, woods and other aldehydes.
Aldehyde C-12 MNA is a fragrance ingredient, not a skincare active. Because of its strength, it is normally used as one component of a fragrance concentrate rather than as the main fragrance material. Finished-product use should follow the applicable supplier safety and IFRA documentation.
