Product: Carbomer (Polyacrylic acid liquid/powder)
Rchem Carbomer is a high-purity, high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid, cross-linked with polyalkenyl ethers or divinyl glycol. Available as a white, fluffy powder or as a convenient pre-neutralized liquid dispersion, it is one of the most efficient and versatile synthetic rheology modifiers available. Renowned for its ability to produce brilliant, clear gels and significantly thicken aqueous systems at very low concentrations, Carbomer is a cornerstone ingredient for creating stable, elegant formulations in the cosmetic, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
Property
Detail
Apperance
Scent
Solubility
Uses
pH
Charge
Used In
Usage Rate
Product Origin
PALM DERIVATIVES STATUS
VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why is neutralization required for Carbomer to thicken?
: In its acidic form, Carbomer is tightly coiled. Neutralization (raising the pH) ionizes the carboxylic acid groups on the polymer chain. The resulting negative charges repel each other, causing the polymer chains to uncoil and expand dramatically in the water, forming a 3D network that traps water and creates viscosity.
The key is to separate the particles before they hydrate. Best practices include: Rapid Agitation: Sprinkle the powder slowly into the vortex of rapidly agitated water (avoid adding water to the powder). Dispersion in Non-Solvent: Pre-disperse the powder in a non-aqueous liquid like glycerin, propylene glycol, or oil before adding to the water phase. Using Liquid Dispersions: Using a pre-dispersed Carbomer (e.g., in oil or solvent) completely eliminates dust and lumping issues.
What is the best way to disperse Carbomer powder without forming fish-eyes or lumps?
Common neutralizing agents include: Triethanolamine (TEA): For clear, high-clarity gels. Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH): For a stiffer gel. Potassium Hydroxide (KOH): Similar to NaOH. AMP (Aminomethyl Propanol): A common cosmetic-grade neutralizer.
What are common neutralizers used with Carbomer?
Carbomer is synthetic, provides very clear, high-viscosity gels with strong suspending power, and requires neutralization. Xanthan Gum is natural, provides hazy solutions with strong pseudoplasticity, works over a wide pH range without neutralization, and is more tolerant of salts.
How does Carbomer differ from natural thickeners like Xanthan Gum?
Yes. Carbomer's viscosity can be reduced or it can be salted out by: High electrolyte concentrations (e.g., salts). Cationic surfactants and polymers (can form complexes and precipitate). Strong polyvalent cations (e.g., Al³⁺, Ca²⁺). Formulations should be carefully designed to avoid these interactions.
