Cyclopentadecanolide is a natural macrolide lactone and a synthetic musk.
Cyclopentadecanolide occurs in small quantities in angelica root essential oil and is responsible for its musklike odor.[1]
Cyclopentadecanolide is produced synthetically by ring expansion of cyclotetradecanone. Another synthesis route is the depolymerization of polyesters of 15-hydroxypentadecanoic acid.
Cyclopentadecanolide is used as a musklike perfume fixative in fine fragrances and as a flavoring agent.[2] It is a substitute for the extremely expensive animal musk.