WS-23 Cooling Agent (CAS 51115-67-4), chemically known as N,2,3-trimethyl-2-isopropylbutanamide, is a synthetic cooling compound widely used in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Unlike traditional menthol, WS-23 provides a clean, intense cooling sensation without any minty odor or taste, making it the preferred choice for product developers who need pure cooling without altering flavor profiles.
What Makes WS-23 Different from Menthol?
Traditional menthol delivers both a cooling sensation and a strong minty flavor, which can interfere with the intended taste of a product. WS-23, however, is virtually odorless and tasteless. It activates the TRPM8 cold receptor in the mouth and skin, producing a cooling effect that is concentrated at the front of the tongue and the palate. This targeted cooling profile makes it ideal for applications where flavor integrity is critical.
Key advantages of WS-23 over menthol include:
- No flavor or odor interference — pure cooling without minty notes
- Higher cooling intensity — approximately 1.5x stronger than menthol on a weight basis
- Low volatility — longer-lasting cooling effect (10-20 minutes)
- Excellent solubility — 30% soluble in propylene glycol (PG), suitable for e-liquid and beverage formulations
- Non-irritating — no burning sensation at recommended dosages
Cooling Agent WS-23 Specifications
| Chemical Name | N,2,3-Trimethyl-2-isopropylbutanamide |
| CAS Number | 51115-67-4 |
| Molecular Formula | C10H21NO |
| Molecular Weight | 171.28 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Purity | 99% minimum |
| Melting Point | 62-64 degrees Celsius |
| Solubility | 30% in PG, 1% in water |
| Grade | USP / Food grade |
WS-23 Applications Across Industries
E-Liquid and Vaping: WS-23 is the most popular cooling agent in e-liquid formulations due to its excellent PG solubility and neutral flavor profile. At a recommended dosage of 2-3% (when dissolved at 30% in PG), it delivers a satisfying throat hit and mouth-filling coolness that enhances fruit, beverage, and dessert flavors without overpowering them. Many e-liquid manufacturers combine WS-23 with WS-3 to create layered cooling effects — WS-23 for the front-of-mouth sensation and WS-3 for the throat and back-of-tongue cooling.
Food and Beverage: In food manufacturing, WS-23 is used in confectionery products, chewing gum, dairy items, beverages, and beer to provide a refreshing sensation. The typical addition rate ranges from 0.07% to 0.3% depending on the product type. It is particularly effective in summer-season products and functional beverages where a cooling sensation enhances the perceived freshness.
Cosmetics and Personal Care: WS-23 is incorporated into toothpaste, mouthwash, shampoo, shower gel, sunscreen, and skin care products. In soaps and body washes, it provides an energizing cool feeling that awakens the senses while offering antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Its low volatility ensures the cooling effect persists throughout product use.
Pharmaceutical: In medicinal applications, WS-23 is used in cough syrups, anti-inflammatory ointments, oral analgesics, and heatstroke remedies. Its TRPM8 agonist properties make it valuable for research into neuropathic pain management and temperature sensation studies.
How to Use WS-23 in E-Liquid Formulations
For DIY e-liquid makers and commercial manufacturers, here is a practical guide:
- Prepare a 30% WS-23 PG solution: Dissolve 30g of WS-23 powder in 70g of propylene glycol. Warm slightly (40-50 degrees) and stir until completely clear.
- Add to e-liquid at 2-3%: For a standard 100ml e-liquid batch, add 2-3ml of the 30% WS-23 PG solution.
- Start low and adjust: Begin with 0.5% if you are new to cooling agents. You can always add more, but over-cooling can mask delicate flavors.
- Blend with other cooling agents: For a multi-dimensional cooling experience, combine WS-23 (front of mouth) with WS-3 (throat) at a ratio of 3:1.
Why Choose Xi’an Taima as Your WS-23 Supplier?
Xi’an Taima Bio-Engineering Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of synthetic cooling agents and food flavors in China. Our WS-23 cooling agent is produced under strict GMP conditions with the following advantages:
- 99%+ purity — verified by HPLC testing
- USP grade certification — suitable for food and pharmaceutical applications
- Competitive pricing — direct factory pricing with no middlemen
- Flexible packaging — 1kg, 5kg, 25kg drums available
- Free samples — 125ml sample bottles for testing
- Global shipping — exported to USA, Europe, Southeast Asia
- Full documentation — COA, MSDS, technical data sheets provided
For more information about WS-23 cooling agent or to request a free sample, contact Xi’an Taima Bio-Engineering today.