About Carbopol 940
Carbomer 940 is a synthetic polymer widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. It is part of the Carbomer family of polymers, which are made from acrylic acid. Carbomer 940 is particularly valued for its thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying properties.
Key Characteristics
- Appearance: White powder.
- Solubility: Water-soluble; forms a clear, viscous gel when hydrated.
- pH Sensitivity: Exhibits pH-dependent viscosity; neutralizing it with a base (e.g., triethanolamine) increases viscosity.
- Molecular Weight: High molecular weight polymer.
Applications
- Cosmetics:
- Found in creams, lotions, and gels to provide a smooth texture and improve stability.
- Commonly used in styling gels, hand sanitizers, and facial cleansers.
- Pharmaceuticals:
- Used as a suspending agent in liquid medications.
- Acts as a delivery system in topical medications like hydrogels.
- Personal Care:
- Thickens formulations in products like toothpaste, shampoos, and body washes.
Benefits
- Efficient Thickener: Requires a low concentration to create a highly viscous gel.
- Clear Formulations: Produces transparent gels, enhancing aesthetic appeal.
- Stability: Provides stability to emulsions and suspensions.
- Non-Toxic: Generally considered safe for topical applications.
Limitations
- pH Sensitivity: Performance depends on maintaining the appropriate pH range (usually 5.5–7.0 after neutralization).
- Alcohol Sensitivity: Less effective in high-alcohol formulations unless modified.
How to Use in Formulations
- Disperse in Water: Sprinkle Carbomer 940 into water and allow it to hydrate.
- Neutralize: Adjust the pH with a neutralizing agent (e.g., triethanolamine or sodium hydroxide) to activate thickening properties.
- Blend: Incorporate other ingredients while mixing gently to avoid air entrapment.
Safety and Environmental Impact
- Safety: Considered non-irritating and non-sensitizing to skin. However, it should be used at recommended concentrations.
- Environmental Impact: As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable and requires responsible disposal practices.
If you need further details, such as formulation tips or compatibility with other ingredients, feel free to ask!
