DMSO smells like lemonade (very sweet)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the unexpected sweet odor of DMSO (dimethyl sulphoxide) purchased from CarlRoth, which differs from the typical garlic or "creamed-corn" smell associated with the substance. Participants explore potential reasons for this change in odor, including contamination or the addition of a fragrance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Michiel notes the sweet lemonade-like smell of DMSO from a new bottle, contrasting it with a previous purchase, and expresses concern that something might be wrong.
  • Some participants suggest that the change in odor could be due to CarlRoth adding a fragrance, possibly for marketing reasons.
  • Another participant speculates that the sweet smell might indicate contamination or that the product is intended for topical use, referencing its historical use among gymnasts.
  • A later reply provides a link to additional information about DMSO and its odors, but does not clarify the situation further.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the cause of the sweet odor, with some proposing it is due to a fragrance addition while others suggest contamination. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of the odor change.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on whether the odor change is a result of a legitimate product alteration or a potential issue with contamination. There are also no definitive conclusions about the safety or implications of the new smell.

michiel chemistry
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TL;DR
DMSO smells very sweet, in stead of a garlic/ "creamed-corn" like odor. Is something wrong?
Hey,
I recently bought DMSO (dimethyl sulphoxide) from CarlRoth (>99.5% for synthesis). It gives a very sweet odor, like lemonade, which I think is a weird smell for DMSO. I suspect something is wrong, because it smells completely different than my previous bottle from CarlRoth. What do you think?

I already contacted CarlRoth but they haven't responded yet.

Thanks in advance,
Michiel

SOLVED: apparently, CarlRoth added a fragrance
 
Last edited:
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Must be getting into a more lucrative market where they can charge more for less.
 
michiel chemistry said:
Summary: DMSO smells very sweet, in stead of a garlic/ "creamed-corn" like odor. Is something wrong?

SOLVED: apparently, CarlRoth added a fragrance
Sounds like a contaminant to me.

Maybe its intended for use on bodies. I had a room mate you was a gymnast once.
It was common to use for sore muscles among gymnasts in the 1980's.
 
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