Norlimbanol® – the dry side of amber
Norlimbanol® – the dry side of amber
Norlimbanol® (product code 967412) is a woody-amber molecule introduced by Firmenich in 1986: powerful, dry woody amber notes with very high tenacity. This page summarises what the manufacturer's data say about the history, character and use of the material.
Contents
- What Norlimbanol is
- From Firmenich's woody-amber history
- Norlimbanol and Ambroxan compared
- Role in the formula and dosage
- Classification and IFRA
- Frequently asked questions
1. What Norlimbanol is
Norlimbanol® is a woody-amber material from dsm-firmenich with the official descriptors Dry Woods and Ambery. The manufacturer describes it as a "Powerful dry woody and ambery note" – a powerful, dry woody amber note that "gives effects to the whole olfactive pyramid from top to bottom".
On the manufacturer's scale Norlimbanol reaches a tenacity of 9; on the blotter it lasts around one week. The material is liquid but, according to the manufacturer, may crystallise. According to the manufacturer's data it is a reaction mass of isomers (molecular formula C15H30O, molecular weight 226.4 g/mol); the manufacturer does not publish a CAS number, it is listed under EC No. 942-425-2.
2. From Firmenich's woody-amber history
dsm-firmenich's woody family began in 1972 with Polywood® and continued in 1986 with the launch of Norlimbanol® – according to the manufacturer "two groundbreaking molecules that set the standard for powerful, long-lasting woody and amber notes". The manufacturer lists Norlimbanol in its woody-amber line after Z11™.
3. Norlimbanol and Ambroxan compared
If you know Ambroxan qualities such as Ambrofix® or AmberMor®, Norlimbanol offers the distinctly drier, woodier side of the amber spectrum – less ambergris warmth, more "Dry Woods".
The two material classes do not compete but complement each other in the base: Norlimbanol works as a dry woody note alongside amber materials such as Ambrofix®.
4. Role in the formula and dosage
According to the manufacturer, Norlimbanol "enhances fresh top notes and the tenacity of perfumes in all applications". At low dosage it adds dryness and longevity; at higher dosage it defines the woody-amber character of the composition itself.
According to the manufacturer, the average dosage in fine fragrance is 0.82 %, with maximum values up to 4.04 %. The average is 0.29 % in shampoo, 0.18 % in shower gel and soap, 0.17 % in detergent, 0.28 % in fabric softener and 0.23 % in candles. Given the strength of the material, work your way up from low levels; for formula work a 10 % dilution in ethanol or DPG is practical.
5. Classification and IFRA
According to the manufacturer's data, Norlimbanol is classified as a skin sensitiser (H317, Skin Sens. 1B). Signal word "Warning", pictogram GHS07. According to the manufacturer the material is readily biodegradable, with a Green Score of 50–70 %.
The substance is subject to an IFRA Standard (Amendment 51, restriction due to dermal sensitisation and systemic toxicity); the maximum levels per product category in the current IFRA Standard are authoritative.
Frequently asked questions
What is Norlimbanol?
A woody-amber molecule from dsm-firmenich, introduced in 1986. It delivers a powerful, dry woody amber note lasting around one week on the blotter.
How does Norlimbanol differ from Ambroxan?
According to the manufacturer's descriptors, Norlimbanol stands for "Dry Woods, Ambery" – the dry, woody side of the amber spectrum. For the typical ambergris facet, choose Ambroxan qualities such as Ambrofix® or AmberMor®; both material classes complement each other in the base.
How should Norlimbanol be dosed?
In fine fragrance an average of 0.82 %, maximum 4.04 % (manufacturer data). The current IFRA Standard also applies to the finished product.