Air Freshener Gel Formulation

Based on the ingredients you plan to use, here's a review of your proposed method:

Regarding the Method

Your proposed method involves heating Pro Polymer™ (Gel Maker) to 50-60 degrees Celsius. According to the product information for Pro Polymer™, heating is not necessary for gelling. You should mix Pro Polymer™ into the water phase by sprinkling the powder while stirring slowly for 3-5 minutes until a smooth gel texture is achieved. Over-blending should be avoided.

If your formula contains more than 5% glycerin or propylene glycol, it is recommended to mix Pro Polymer™ with these ingredients first before adding to water. If using only water, sprinkle Pro Polymer™ while continuously spinning, then stop blending and let it sit for about 1 day to fully absorb the water before blending slowly again.

You also mentioned adding the preservative and fragrance after heating. The preservative Mild Preserved™ COS should be added when the temperature of the mixture is lower than 45 degrees Celsius. Adding it at 50-60 degrees Celsius is too high. Fragrance and essential oils are also typically added after the base has cooled to prevent the volatile components from evaporating.

A more appropriate general method would be:

1. Prepare the water phase.
2. Slowly add Pro Polymer™ according to the recommended mixing method (sprinkling while stirring, without heating). Allow sufficient time for the gel to form.
3. Once the gel is formed and the temperature is below 45 degrees Celsius, add the preservative (e.g., Mild Preserved™ COS).
4. Add the fragrance or essential oil.
5. Stir gently to combine.

Regarding Fragrance Concentration

You asked if 5% fragrance or essential oil is sufficient for the scent to last longer than 2 weeks and dissipate slowly like a commercial product (e.g., Glade).

A 5% concentration of fragrance or essential oil is relatively high and will likely provide a strong initial scent. However, the longevity and diffusion rate of the scent depend on several factors, including:

• The specific fragrance or essential oil used: Different fragrance components have different volatilities. Some evaporate quickly, while others are longer-lasting.
• The gel matrix: The type of gel base affects how well the fragrance is held and released over time. A simple gel made with Pro Polymer™ might not provide the same controlled, slow release as specialized gel matrices used in commercial air fresheners designed for long-term diffusion.
• Environmental conditions: Temperature, humidity, and airflow in the surrounding environment will significantly impact how quickly the scent dissipates.

While 5% is a good starting point for a noticeable scent, achieving a consistent, slow release for over 2 weeks, similar to commercial products, might require experimenting with different fragrance types or potentially modifying the gel base to optimize fragrance diffusion.

In summary, your proposed method needs adjustment regarding the heating step for Pro Polymer™ and the temperature for adding the preservative and fragrance. The 5% fragrance concentration provides a strong scent, but achieving long-lasting, slow diffusion depends on factors beyond just the concentration.