Satin Cream Maker™ Gel Decomposition Issues with pH Adjustment

The issue you are experiencing with Satin Cream Maker™ (Sodium Acrylates Copolymer) decomposing when acids or bases are introduced—even after neutralizing the pH—is likely due to the electrolyte (salt) concentration or mechanical shear, rather than the pH itself.

Here are the primary factors to consider for troubleshooting:

1. Electrolyte (Salt) Sensitivity

While Satin Cream Maker™ is designed to be electrolyte resistant, every acrylate-based polymer has a limit. When you neutralize an acid with a base (e.g., neutralizing Citric Acid with Sodium Hydroxide), you create salts (Sodium Citrate). If the concentration of these salts is too high, the polymer chains will collapse, causing the gel to lose viscosity or "decompose."

• Solution: Try to minimize the amount of acid/base needed for adjustment. If your formula requires high levels of active ingredients that are salts or require heavy neutralization, you may need to supplement the formula with a stabilizer.

2. Mixing Speed (Shear)

Satin Cream Maker™ is sensitive to high-speed mixing. The product specifications state that you should not exceed 2,500 rpm.

• Solution: If you are using a high-shear homogenizer at high speeds, you may be mechanically breaking the polymer chains. Reduce the mixing speed once the polymer has been added.

3. Order of Addition

Even though you adjust the pH before adding the maker, the resulting salt load is already present in the water.

• Solution: Try adding a co-thickener or stabilizer to help support the structure. Natural gums like Xanthan Gum or Sclerotium Gum are highly resistant to electrolytes and can provide a "backbone" for the cream, preventing it from collapsing even if the polymer is stressed.

4. Recommended Stabilizers

If the formula continues to break, we recommend adding a small amount (0.2-0.5%) of a stabilizer to work alongside Satin Cream Maker™. This will significantly improve the formula's tolerance to the salts created during pH adjustment.

If your formula contains a very high amount of electrolytes (such as high concentrations of Vitamin C derivatives or mineral salts), you might consider using an emulsifier specifically designed for extreme electrolyte environments.