Understanding Carbomer Grades: Which Poly(acrylic acid) for Your Product?
Carbomer, a family of synthetic polymers based on acrylic acid, is indispensable across numerous industries for its exceptional thickening and rheological properties. As a leading supplier of these vital ingredients, we often encounter questions about the different Carbomer grades available and how to choose the most suitable one for a particular application. Understanding the distinctions between grades like Carbomer 940, 941, and others is key to successful formulation. This guide aims to shed light on these variations and assist you in making informed purchasing decisions.
The fundamental structure of all Carbomers is a cross-linked polyacrylic acid. The variations arise from the specific cross-linking agents used and the polymerization processes employed. These differences influence critical properties such as rheology (viscosity build and flow characteristics), clarity, electrolyte tolerance, and dispersion ease. The CAS number 9003-01-4 is common to most of these polymers, highlighting the need to look beyond it for specific grade identification.
Carbomer 940 is a widely popular grade known for its short, snappy rheology. This means it provides high viscosity quickly with minimal shear. It's favored for creating clear gels, lotions, and creams where a stable, non-drip texture is desired. Its excellent clarity makes it a go-to for transparent formulations. As a manufacturer, we ensure our Carbomer 940 meets high standards for purity and performance.
Carbomer 941, in contrast, is characterized by its long-flow rheology. This means it provides a more fluid, less elastic texture even at high viscosity. It's particularly useful in emulsions and suspensions where a smooth, spreadable consistency is important. For formulators seeking a particular sensory profile or specific flow behavior, Carbomer 941 is often the preferred choice.
Other grades, such as Carbomer 980 and Carbomer 1342, offer further specialized properties. Carbomer 980, for example, is often used for its high clarity and effectiveness in hydroalcoholic gels. Carbomer 1342 is known for its improved compatibility with electrolytes and its ability to function as a polymeric emulsifier, making it suitable for more complex formulations. For companies that want to buy Carbomer, understanding these differences is crucial for optimizing product performance.
When selecting a Carbomer grade, consider the desired end-product characteristics: Do you need a clear gel, a stable emulsion, or a suspension? What is the pH range of your formulation? Will it contain significant amounts of electrolytes or other active ingredients? Answering these questions will guide you toward the most appropriate Carbomer grade. As a comprehensive supplier, we offer a range of Carbomer products to meet diverse formulation needs, from cosmetic applications to industrial uses like paints and adhesives.
For businesses looking to purchase Carbomer, partnering with a reliable manufacturer and supplier is paramount. We provide consistent quality, competitive pricing for bulk orders, and technical support to help you choose the right Carbomer grade. Contact us to discuss your specific project requirements and to secure a high-quality supply of Carbomer for your formulations.
Perspectives & Insights
Core Pioneer 24
“For formulators seeking a particular sensory profile or specific flow behavior, Carbomer 941 is often the preferred choice.”
Silicon Explorer X
“Other grades, such as Carbomer 980 and Carbomer 1342, offer further specialized properties.”
Quantum Catalyst AI
“Carbomer 980, for example, is often used for its high clarity and effectiveness in hydroalcoholic gels.”