Find 4 oxoisophorone for Flavors Fragrances and Intermediates

Strategic Sourcing Guide for 4-Oxoisophorone Procurement

Understanding the Chemical Profile and Technical Specifications

When initiating a procurement strategy for 4-Oxoisophorone, buyers must first establish a precise understanding of the chemical's physical and chemical identity to ensure compatibility with their specific manufacturing processes. The core substance is chemically identified by the CAS registry number 1125-21-9, which serves as the primary verification point for any supplier listing. In terms of physical state, market observations indicate that the product appears as a liquid, though some listings describe it as a colorless or light yellow liquid, while others note a white appearance or even a powder form, suggesting potential variations in purity grades or formulation states.

The molecular weight is a critical parameter for stoichiometric calculations in synthesis, with documented values ranging around 138.21 and 152.19, indicating that buyers must verify the specific molecular weight associated with the grade they intend to purchase. The density is another vital physical property; observed data points to a density of 1.03 g/mL in some contexts, while other specifications list 0.923 g/mL at 25 °C. This discrepancy highlights the necessity for buyers to request specific density test reports for the batch in question, as density can vary based on temperature and purity levels.

Thermal properties are equally significant for storage and handling. The melting point is recorded at -8 °C, confirming the substance is liquid at standard ambient temperatures. The boiling point is listed within the range of 213-214 °C, which dictates the energy requirements for distillation or evaporation processes. The chemical is classified as an unsaturated ketone, specifically identified as 4-Ketoisophorone or 2, 6, 6-Trimethyl-2-Cyclohexene-1, 4-Dione. This structural classification is essential for safety data sheets (SDS) and for understanding reactivity profiles in downstream applications.

Regulatory Compliance and Certification Verification

Navigating the regulatory landscape for 4-Oxoisophorone requires rigorous verification of certifications and standards, as the chemical is often utilized in flavor and fragrance applications where safety is paramount. One of the most critical identifiers for flavor ingredients is the FEMA (Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association) number. For this compound, the FEMA number 3281 is a key compliance marker that buyers should verify on all documentation to ensure the product is approved for use in food and beverage sectors.

Certification status varies significantly among suppliers, and buyers must not assume universal compliance. Some suppliers list ISO 9001 certification, which indicates a quality management system in place, while others may provide MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) documentation as a primary compliance artifact. It is important to note that while ISO 9001:2015 is a recognized standard in the industry, buyers should treat this as a verification target rather than an automatic attribute of every listing. The presence of an "Environmental Protection: Yes" attribute in some product descriptions suggests that certain suppliers adhere to specific environmental guidelines, but this requires direct confirmation with the manufacturer.

Standardization is another area of focus. The product standard is sometimes listed simply as the chemical name itself, while other times it refers to purity levels such as 98% or 99.9%. Buyers must distinguish between the chemical standard and the purity standard. For instance, a listing might state a standard of 99% purity, while another might list 99.9%. These numerical differences are not merely marketing terms but represent significant variations in chemical composition that can impact the final product's quality. Therefore, the procurement team must explicitly request the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm the exact purity percentage and ensure it matches the required specification for the application.

Cost Drivers and Pricing Dynamics

The pricing structure for 4-Oxoisophorone is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including purity, packaging, order volume, and supply chain logistics. The observed market price range is extensive, spanning from 1 USD to 3500 USD per unit, which reflects the diversity of packaging sizes and purity grades available. This wide variance means that a direct price comparison without normalizing for quantity and quality is misleading. Buyers must analyze the cost per kilogram or per unit of active ingredient rather than the total invoice amount.

Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) is a primary driver of cost efficiency. The market shows MOQs ranging from 1 kg to 2000 kg, with a common benchmark of 100 kg for standard industrial grades. Smaller MOQs, such as 1 kg, are often available for sample testing or R&D purposes but typically carry a higher unit cost. Conversely, larger orders may benefit from economies of scale, but they require significant capital outlay and storage capacity. The packaging format also influences cost; options include 25 kg drums, 25 kg bags, 200 kg drums, and 1000 kg IBC drums. Bulk packaging like IBC drums generally reduces the cost per kilogram compared to smaller 25 kg units, but they require specific handling equipment.

Lead times and delivery terms further impact the total cost of ownership. Some suppliers offer rapid delivery times of 3-5 days, which can be crucial for just-in-time manufacturing but may come at a premium. Other suppliers may have longer lead times depending on production schedules and inventory levels. The origin of the product, with China being a noted source, introduces considerations regarding shipping costs, import duties, and currency exchange rates. Buyers should factor in the total landed cost, which includes the base price, freight, insurance, and any applicable tariffs, to make an informed financial decision.

Typical Applications and Functional Usage

The versatility of 4-Oxoisophorone makes it a valuable ingredient across multiple industries, particularly in the flavor and fragrance sector. As a natural flavor, it is utilized to impart specific aromatic profiles to food and beverage products. The FEMA number 3281 confirms its status as a recognized flavoring agent, making it suitable for use in confectionery, baked goods, and dairy products where a distinct, sweet, and creamy note is desired. The chemical's structure as an unsaturated ketone contributes to its unique olfactory properties, which are stable under various processing conditions.

Beyond flavor applications, the chemical's functional properties extend to other areas. Some product descriptions mention a "Rehabilitation" function, though this is less common and requires specific context to understand its application in industrial or medical settings. The environmental protection attributes associated with certain suppliers suggest that the chemical may be used in formulations where eco-friendly profiles are a priority, such as in green chemistry initiatives or sustainable product lines.

The physical state of the product, whether liquid or powder, also dictates its application method. Liquid forms are easier to blend into homogeneous mixtures, while powder forms might be preferred for dry blends or specific encapsulation processes. The shelf life of 24 months or 2 years provides a window for inventory management, allowing buyers to stockpile for peak production seasons without immediate concern for degradation. However, the storage conditions must be strictly controlled to maintain the integrity of the unsaturated ketone structure, preventing oxidation or polymerization that could alter the flavor profile.

Supplier Evaluation and Quality Control Protocols

Selecting a reliable supplier for 4-Oxoisophorone requires a multi-faceted evaluation process that goes beyond price and availability. Buyers should prioritize suppliers who provide comprehensive documentation, including detailed CoAs, SDS, and proof of certification. The presence of specific product models, such as SZ-CTS, SZ-MM, ZLW0445, and LMR0510, indicates that suppliers may have distinct internal SKUs or grades. While these model numbers help in tracking inventory, they do not inherently guarantee quality; therefore, buyers must verify that the specific model corresponds to the required purity and specifications.

Quality control is paramount, especially given the variations in density, purity, and appearance observed in the market. Buyers should implement a rigorous incoming quality control protocol that includes testing for density, boiling point, and purity against the supplier's CoA. The discrepancy in reported densities (1.03 vs. 0.923 g/mL) underscores the need for independent verification. Additionally, the shelf life of 24 months or 2 years should be validated through stability testing to ensure the product remains within specification throughout its intended use period.

Supplier reliability is also assessed through their customization capabilities. The availability of customization options suggests that suppliers are willing to adapt packaging or specifications to meet buyer needs. However, buyers must ensure that any customizations do not compromise the chemical integrity or regulatory compliance of the product. The origin of the product, primarily China, requires buyers to be vigilant about supply chain transparency and to verify that the supplier has a robust track record of exporting to their region.

Long-Term Procurement and Supply Chain Resilience

Establishing a long-term procurement strategy for 4-Oxoisophorone involves building resilience against supply chain disruptions and market volatility. The wide range of MOQs and packaging options provides flexibility, but buyers should aim to secure consistent supply relationships with suppliers who demonstrate stability in their production capabilities. Diversifying the supplier base can mitigate risks associated with single-source dependencies, especially given the global nature of the chemical industry.

Inventory management is a critical component of long-term planning. With a shelf life of up to 24 months, buyers can maintain a strategic stockpile to buffer against supply shortages. However, this requires adequate storage facilities that meet safety and environmental standards to prevent degradation. The lead time of 3-5 days for some suppliers offers an opportunity for lean inventory practices, but buyers must balance this with the risk of stockouts if the supplier faces production delays.

Sustainability and environmental compliance are increasingly important in long-term procurement. Suppliers who highlight environmental protection attributes and hold relevant certifications are better positioned to support buyers in meeting their own corporate sustainability goals. As regulations evolve, particularly in the flavor and fragrance industry, maintaining a relationship with compliant suppliers will be essential for avoiding disruptions and ensuring continued market access.

Comparative Analysis of Product Specifications

To facilitate informed decision-making, the following table summarizes the key specifications observed in the market for 4-Oxoisophorone. This comparison highlights the variations that buyers must navigate when selecting a supplier.

This table serves as a reference point for buyers to identify gaps in supplier data and to formulate precise inquiry questions. By cross-referencing these observed values with specific supplier offers, procurement teams can ensure that the selected 4-Oxoisophorone meets all technical, regulatory, and operational requirements for their specific applications.