Carbomer

General Description
Carbomer is a benchmark synthetic high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid, widely recognized in the personal care and pharmaceutical industries as a premier water-soluble thickening and suspending agent. It is the industry standard for creating high-viscosity, crystal-clear gels and stabilizing complex emulsions.

Key Properties & Mechanisms

• Precise Rheology Control:
  Delivers exceptional thickening efficiency at very low concentrations. Upon neutralization with an alkaline agent, the polymer uncoils to form a rigid network structure, transforming low-viscosity liquids into stable, high-viscosity gels.

• High Yield Value & Suspension:
  Possesses a high yield value, enabling the permanent suspension of insoluble ingredients (such as beads, pigments, and exfoliants) within the formulation without sedimentation, even in low-viscosity systems.

• Broad Stability Profile:
  Adaptable to a wide pH range (typically pH 2 - 11) and exhibits excellent thermal stability. It effectively maintains formulation integrity by preventing phase separation, syneresis, and stratification.

Key Benefits

• Sensory Optimization:
  Imparts a non-tacky, smooth, and short-flow rheology (non-drip) to products. It enhances the consumer experience by providing a refreshing and light skin feel.

• Versatile Compatibility:
  Highly compatible with a broad spectrum of surfactants, humectants, and active ingredients. It stabilizes formulations without interfering with the biological activity of other components.

• Cost-Effective Performance:
  Requires minimal dosage to achieve desired viscosity targets, making it an economical choice for mass-market production.

Applications & Compatibility

• Target Industries: Personal Care (Skincare, Hair Care), Hydroalcoholic Gels (Sanitizers), and Household Products.

• Formulation Suitability: The ideal core thickener for clear gels, lotions, creams, serums, and surfactant-based cleansing systems.

• Primary Functions: Thickening/Viscosity Modification, Suspension, Emulsion Stabilization, Texture Enhancement.