Carbomer 940 and Carbomer 980 are both types of synthetic polymers used primarily as gelling agents, thickeners, and stabilizers in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care products. The key differences between the two lie in their properties, such as viscosity, gel clarity, and performance in different formulations.
Here’s a comparison of the two:
1. Viscosity
- Carbomer 940: Known for producing gels with moderate to high viscosity. It is often used in formulations where a moderate thickening effect is desired, such as in creams, lotions, and gels.
- Carbomer 980: Generally provides a higher viscosity than Carbomer 940, making it better suited for thicker formulations like gel products that require a higher gel strength or viscosity.
2. Clarity
- Carbomer 940: Typically provides a gel with good clarity but may have slightly lower transparency compared to Carbomer 980.
- Carbomer 980: Known for producing clear, highly transparent gels, which is especially desirable in clear gel formulations, such as hand sanitizers or facial gels.
3. Flow Properties
- Carbomer 940: Tends to have a slightly more flowable texture, which can make it easier to apply and spread in certain formulations.
- Carbomer 980: Often results in a thicker, more viscous gel, which can be beneficial for products where a firmer texture is needed.
4. pH Sensitivity
- Both types of Carbomer are pH-sensitive and require neutralization (usually with a base like sodium hydroxide or triethanolamine) to develop their full thickening potential. However, Carbomer 980 may exhibit slightly better performance in terms of thickening at a broader range of pH values compared to Carbomer 940.
5. Common Uses
- Carbomer 940: Commonly used in formulations like lotions, shampoos, creams, and body washes. It provides good stability and gel-like consistency.
- Carbomer 980: Preferred in formulations where high viscosity and clarity are needed, such as clear gels, facial masks, and hand sanitizers.
6. Gelling Speed
- Carbomer 940: Generally forms gels more slowly than Carbomer 980, which can sometimes require more time to fully hydrate and achieve the desired texture.
- Carbomer 980: Usually hydrates faster and can form a gel more quickly, making it suitable for more streamlined manufacturing processes.
Summary:
- Carbomer 940: Moderate viscosity, less clarity, and more flowable texture. Used in products like creams, lotions, and body washes.
- Carbomer 980: Higher viscosity, better clarity, firmer gel texture, and faster gel formation. Used in clear gels, hand sanitizers, and facial products.
Both are versatile ingredients, but your choice will depend on the specific formulation needs regarding viscosity, clarity, and gel strength.