Carbomer

About This Product

Carbomer is a high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid, cross-linked so that it swells in water instead of dissolving. The specification supplied covers Carbomer 940, a white loose powder: a 0.5% neutral solution is stated at 58000 mPa·s, the pH is given as 3.2 and carboxylic acid content as 58.0%, while moisture is held to 1.0% max, the ignition residue to no more than 0.5% and heavy metals to below 10 ppm. Benzene is reported as not detected. Neutralising the dispersion with an alkali such as sodium hydroxide or an amine uncoils the polymer chains and raises viscosity sharply. That behaviour underpins transparent gels, the thickening of creams and lotions, and holding particles or droplets in suspension in household and personal-care liquids. The producer also names Carbomer 934, 941 and 980, which differ in flow and viscosity behaviour; each is quoted with its own specification on enquiry. Compliance with USP, EP, BP and CP is stated by the producer, so ask which monograph and edition the lot certificate covers and confirm suitability for your product. Benzene is prohibited in cosmetic products in the UK and EU, so request the detection limit behind the "not detected" result. Carbomer is not an authorised food additive in the UK or EU and is not offered for food use. The viscosity, pH and carboxylic acid figures are single values without limits; agree specification ranges before ordering.