Gelling Agents for 37% Phosphoric Acid

To create a gel from 37% phosphoric acid, you need a gelling agent that can withstand a highly acidic environment. Some suitable options based on their properties include:

• AnyGel™ (Dehydroxanthan Gum): This gelling agent offers good resistance to acid, alkali, and electrolytes, making it suitable for acidic formulations like phosphoric acid. It provides a non-greasy gel texture that absorbs well. Recommended usage rate is typically 1-2.5%.

• Sepimax Zen (Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6): Known for its high tolerance to salts and pH variations, Sepimax Zen is another excellent choice for thickening acidic solutions. It works well in challenging formulations. Recommended usage rate is typically 0.5-2%.

• Reshape Gel™ (Polyurethane-62, Butylene Glycol): This agent can form a gel stable at pH 2-10 and withstands acid and alkali well. While 37% phosphoric acid is likely below pH 2, if the final formulation pH is within this range, Reshape Gel™ could be considered. It also offers a unique "memory gel" texture. Recommended usage rate is 3-7%.

Other gelling agents like Aristoflex AVC might also be considered, but it is crucial to verify their stability and effectiveness at the specific low pH of your 37% phosphoric acid formulation. SepGEL 305 is generally not recommended as it does not tolerate electrolytes, and phosphoric acid is a strong electrolyte.

Always test the chosen gelling agent in a small batch first to ensure compatibility and achieve the desired gel consistency and stability in your specific phosphoric acid formulation.