Skatole (3-Methylindole) – Fragrance & Research

Description

Skatole, or 3-Methylindole, is a naturally occurring organic compound renowned for its dual-purpose functionality in the fragrance and flavor industries, as well as its utility in chemical research. While it exhibits a strong odor in high concentrations, in diluted forms, Skatole provides a sophisticated floral and musky scent commonly utilized in high-end perfumes.

Applications of Skatole (3-Methylindole)

Fragrance Industry

• Purpose:
  • Skatole is prized for its unique olfactory properties, particularly in diluted forms where it exudes a musky and floral scent.
• Applications:
  • A key ingredient in luxury perfumes and colognes to enhance musky, floral, or exotic notes.
  • Often used in small quantities to add depth and warmth to fragrance compositions.

Flavor Industry

• Purpose:
  • In trace amounts, Skatole contributes to complex flavor profiles.
• Applications:
  • Used in food flavorings to enhance meat or fruit-like flavors.
  • Limited to extremely low concentrations due to its potency; ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Research and Development

• Purpose:
  • A valuable compound for chemical research and synthesis.
• Applications:
  • Studied for its role in biological processes and as a metabolic byproduct in animals.
  • Used in the development of novel synthetic routes for other complex organic compounds.
  • Frequently applied in studies related to odor chemistry and sensory science.

Agricultural and Environmental Research

• Purpose:
  • Skatole is naturally produced by the breakdown of organic matter and is relevant in agricultural contexts.
• Applications:
  • Investigated for its role in livestock odor management.
  • Studied in soil and environmental sciences to understand microbial activity and decomposition processes.

Specialty Chemical Formulations

• Purpose:
  • Serves as an intermediate or additive in specialized chemical formulations.
• Applications:
  • Incorporated in niche industrial processes requiring specific aromatic characteristics or chemical properties.

Pharmaceutical Research

• Purpose:
  • Skatole’s biological interactions make it a compound of interest in pharmacology.
• Applications:
  • Examined for potential effects on human and animal health.
  • Used as a reference compound in metabolic and toxicological studies.

Storage:

• Temperature: Store at a controlled room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
• Environment: Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
• Container: Store in a tightly sealed, chemical-resistant container to prevent contamination or loss of potency.
• Protection from Light: Use opaque or UV-resistant containers to shield the product from light exposure, which can degrade its quality.
• Segregation: Avoid storing near strong oxidizing agents, acids, or bases to prevent chemical reactions.

Handling:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats, when handling the substance.
• Ventilation: Use in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood to prevent inhalation of vapors.
• Hygiene: Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
• Spill Management: In case of a spill, use inert absorbent materials to clean up, and dispose of the waste in accordance with local regulations.
• Waste Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with federal, state, and local environmental control regulations.

Safety Note:

Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete safety, handling, and disposal instructions. Keep out of reach of children and untrained individuals.