Carbomer 940 is a high molecular weight polymer often used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care formulations for its thickening, emulsifying, and gelling properties. To properly dissolve Carbomer 940, it needs to be hydrated correctly to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth gel consistency. Here is the recommended method for dissolving Carbomer 940:
Dissolution Method of Carbomer 940:
1.Preparation of the Aqueous Phase:
- Begin by preparing the water phase of your formulation. This is usually deionized water or another aqueous solvent.
- The water should be cool to room temperature or slightly cold. Carbomer 940 is sensitive to temperature and may not fully hydrate if the water is too hot.
2.Dispersing the Carbomer:
- Slowly sprinkle the Carbomer 940 powder into the water while stirring continuously to prevent clumping.
- It is important to add the Carbomer powder slowly into the water, not the other way around, to achieve a uniform dispersion.
- Use a mechanical stirrer or a high-shear mixer to help break up any clumps that form.
3.Hydration:
- Allow the mixture to stand for about 30 minutes after dispersion, ensuring that the Carbomer fully hydrates. During this time, the polymer will swell and thicken the water.
- Do not heat the mixture during this step. If necessary, let it sit for longer periods to ensure complete hydration.
4.Neutralization (if applicable):
- After the Carbomer 940 has fully hydrated and swelled, it will form a gel that is acidic (low pH). To neutralize the gel and adjust the pH, you can add a neutralizing agent (typically sodium hydroxide or triethanolamine).
- Slowly add the neutralizing agent while continuously stirring. The pH should be adjusted to between 6 and 7 for the gel to achieve optimal viscosity and consistency.
5.Final Adjustments:
- After neutralization, the gel can be further adjusted with other ingredients, such as preservatives, active ingredients, or fragrances, depending on your formulation.
Key Considerations:
- Carbomer 940 gels are pH-sensitive, and neutralization is critical to achieving the desired viscosity.
- If adding other ingredients, make sure they are compatible with the pH of the final gel.
- High shear mixing may be required to disperse Carbomer 940 effectively.
This method will give you a smooth, consistent gel suitable for various applications.