Carbomer 940 is a high molecular weight, crosslinked polyacrylic acid polymer. It is commonly used as a thickening agent, emulsifier, and stabilizer in various cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care products. Here’s a basic overview of Carbomer 940:
Chemical Structure of Carbomer 940:
- INCI Name: Carbomer
- Chemical Formula: (C3H4O2)n
- Type: Crosslinked polyacrylic acid
Properties of Carbomer 940:
- Appearance: White to off-white powder or granular material.
- Solubility: Insoluble in water, but it disperses and swells in water to form gels when neutralized (typically with a base like triethanolamine or sodium hydroxide).
- Viscosity: Provides high viscosity even in low concentrations. The gel strength and viscosity can be adjusted depending on the amount used and the pH of the formulation.
Applications of Carbomer 940:
- Cosmetics & Personal Care: Used in lotions, creams, gels, and other skincare products for thickening, stabilizing emulsions, and controlling the release of active ingredients.
- Pharmaceuticals: In topical gels, ointments, and drug delivery systems.
- Food: Sometimes used as a food additive (though in a lower grade than cosmetic or pharmaceutical carbomers).
Functionality:
- Thickening agent: Helps to increase the viscosity of liquids or gels.
- Suspension agent: Can suspend solid particles in a liquid, preventing them from settling.
- Emulsion stabilizer: Helps to stabilize oil-water emulsions and prevents separation.
Formulation Considerations:
- Neutralization: Carbomer requires neutralization to achieve its thickening effect. Common neutralizers include triethanolamine (TEA) or sodium hydroxide. The pH of the final product is usually adjusted to 5.5 to 7 for optimal performance.
- Compatibility: It is compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients, though it can form gels in the presence of salts, which can affect its viscosity.
Safety:
Carbomer 940 is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing to the skin when used within recommended concentrations (usually between 0.2% and 2%).
Storage and Handling:
- Storage: Should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from excessive heat or moisture.
- Handling: It is recommended to handle Carbomer 940 with care, as the powder form can be dusty and may irritate the eyes or respiratory tract.
Would you like more specific information or guidance on using Carbomer 940 in formulations?