Carbomers are widely used as rheology modifiers and suspending agents in the personal care industry. They stabilise and thicken formulations like gels, emulsions or surfactant based applications.
Standard carbomer types are available as powders. Evonik Goldschmidt Personal Care has launched a new granulated carbomer type at this year’s in-cosmetics in Paris. TEGO Carbomer 140 G (INCI: Carbomer) is a viscosity adjuster, viscosity builder and emulsion stabiliser. It is the first carbomer on the market based on a class 3 solvent (according to Pharmacopoe Européenne). In the polymerisation, step n-heptane and ethylacetate are used as solvents (max. 0.5% residual content). The new product is especially suitable for cosmetic or pharmaceutical emulsions and gels. The granulated quality of TEGO Carbomer 140 G offers numerous advantages compared to standard powder types. It causes low dusting and offers a better flow ability. The bulk density is 3.5 times higher compared to powder types, which leads to a reduced shipping volume. With regard to performance, the granulated carbomer is comparable with powder products, but it is easier to disperse and easier to handle than conventional powder types. It disperses very quickly in water without formation of lumps. TEGO Carbomer 140 G is soluble in both water and alcohol and can be used over a wide pH range.
