Abstract
AbstractIt is known that many terpenes can autoxidize under certain conditions to form terpene hydroperoxides, which have been reported to be contact allergens in dermatological clinics. The fragrance industry currently controls terpene hydroperoxide levels in many raw materials by iodometric titration (also known as the peroxide value or POV test) and rejects lots that exceed a specification limit. Previously, we have reported that pyruvic acid and its salts can be used to lower terpene hydroperoxide levels in citrus oils by an oxidative decarboxylation reaction, thus lowering the POV. However, both pyruvic acid and the by‐product acetic acid have strong aromas that are not compatible with citrus oils or other fragrances. For this reason, α‐ketoglutaric acid and its salts were tested. They were found to be highly effective and rapid at POV reduction in citrus oils and citrus‐based model fragrances. Both α‐ketoglutaric acid and the by‐product succinic acid are odourless; they are also both Krebs cycle intermediates, so there is practically no risk of systemic toxicity at relevant use levels.
Published Version
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