In the realm of cosmetic and personal care formulation, selecting the right rheology modifier is crucial for achieving desired product characteristics. Carbomers, a family of synthetic polymers, are widely used for their thickening, suspending, and stabilizing capabilities. Among these, Carbomer 940 is a highly popular choice, but understanding its distinctions from other grades, such as Carbomer 980 or Carbomer 934, is vital for optimizing formulations. As a reputable Carbomer supplier, we aim to guide you through these choices.

Understanding the Carbomer Family: Grades and Properties

Carbomers are essentially cross-linked polyacrylic acid polymers. The key differences between various grades lie in their cross-linking agents, molecular weight, and resulting particle size. These variations influence properties like thickening efficiency, clarity of the gel formed, and the rheological profile (e.g., short vs. long flow). When you decide to buy Carbomer, considering these distinctions ensures you select the grade that best suits your specific application.

Carbomer 940: The Versatile Standard

Carbomer 940 is renowned for its high thickening efficiency and ability to produce sparkling clear gels. It is often favored for its 'short flow' rheology, meaning the gel doesn't easily string or drip, making it ideal for products like styling gels, hand sanitizers, and viscous creams. Its consistent performance and ease of use have made it a staple in many cosmetic formulations. As a manufacturer, we ensure our Carbomer 940 meets rigorous purity standards for these demanding applications.

Comparing Carbomer 940 to Other Common Grades:

  • Carbomer 980: Typically offers a medium viscosity and a slightly less clear gel compared to 940. It's suitable for lotions and creams where extreme clarity isn't the primary concern but good thickening is needed.
  • Carbomer 934: Generally provides lower viscosity and a more opaque gel. It is often used in applications requiring less stringent clarity, like some types of creams or pastes.
  • Carbomer 910: Similar to 940, it offers high viscosity and clarity but may have slightly different flow characteristics.
  • Pre-neutralized Carbomers (e.g., Sodium Carbomer): These grades are already neutralized, simplifying the formulation process as they do not require a separate neutralization step to achieve thickening. They offer convenience but may have slightly different pH ranges or performance profiles compared to traditional Carbomers.

Key Considerations When Choosing:

  • Desired Viscosity: Different grades offer varying thickening powers.
  • Clarity Requirements: For clear gels and serums, grades like 940 and 910 are often preferred.
  • Rheological Profile: Consider the desired flow and texture – 'short flow' (940) vs. 'long flow'.
  • Neutralization Step: Decide if you prefer a traditional carbomer requiring neutralization or a pre-neutralized option for convenience.
  • Cost and Availability: While all grades are generally cost-effective, slight price variations can exist.

As a trusted supplier, we offer a range of Carbomers to meet diverse formulation needs. If you're unsure which grade is best for your product, our team is ready to provide expert advice. When you buy Carbomer from us, you benefit from our technical expertise and commitment to quality. Contact us today to discuss your specific requirements and secure a reliable source for your Carbomer needs.