NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. prioritizes safety and quality in all our product offerings. Carbomer 940, while a highly effective ingredient, requires proper handling and storage to ensure optimal performance and user safety. This guide outlines essential practices for working with Carbomer 940.

Safety Precautions:

When handling Carbomer 940 powder, it is crucial to minimize dust generation. Inhaling fine powders can lead to respiratory irritation. Always work in a well-ventilated area or use local exhaust ventilation. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is recommended, including safety glasses to protect the eyes, gloves to prevent skin contact, and a dust mask if ventilation is inadequate or dust levels are high. Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the material, especially before eating, drinking, or smoking.

Handling Procedures:

The primary challenge during handling is preventing dust formation. If the material is spilled, avoid dry sweeping, as this can aerosolize the powder. Instead, gently scoop or vacuum the spilled material. If water is used for cleaning, be aware that Carbomer 940 swells rapidly in water to form a slippery gel, which can create a slip hazard on floors and equipment. Always clean up spills promptly and safely.

Storage Recommendations:

Carbomer 940 is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air. Moisture absorption can lead to clumping and affect its flowability and performance. Therefore, it is essential to store Carbomer 940 in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and incompatible materials such as strong acids and bases. Proper storage helps maintain its shelf life and functional integrity.

Formulation Considerations:

As discussed in the context of carbomer 940 gel formulation, neutralization is key to activating its thickening properties. The aqueous solution of Carbomer 940 is acidic; it requires neutralization to achieve its full thickening potential. The speed of hydration and thickening can be influenced by factors like water temperature, agitation intensity, and the presence of other ingredients. It's important to ensure complete hydration before neutralization for uniform thickening.

The carbomer 940 rheology modifier performance can be affected by electrolytes and cations. High concentrations of salts can reduce viscosity. Therefore, it’s advisable to neutralize the Carbomer gel before adding significant amounts of electrolytes, or to use deionized water as the base and carefully control electrolyte addition. Compatibility testing with all formulation ingredients is always recommended.

Shelf Life and Stability:

When stored under recommended conditions, Carbomer 940 typically has a good shelf life, often two years or more. However, prolonged exposure to heat, moisture, or UV light can degrade the polymer and reduce its thickening efficiency. Always check the manufacturer's expiry date and follow storage guidelines diligently.

At NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., we are committed to providing safe, high-quality ingredients and comprehensive support. By adhering to these safety and handling guidelines, formulators can confidently work with Carbomer 940, unlocking its full potential while maintaining a safe and productive environment.