ThickClean™ (Acrylates Copolymer) Shower Gel: Dissolution Temperature and Low Viscosity Troubleshooting

Answer for ThickClean™ (Acrylates Copolymer, eq. Carbopol SF-1) (ID: 7994)

The product ThickClean™ is a liquid thickening agent (Liquid Acrylates Copolymer Dispersion) designed for easy use and does not require heat for dissolution.

1. Dissolution Temperature

• Answer: ThickClean™ can be mixed and dissolved in water at room temperature or 35°C immediately. It does not require high heat up to 70°C. Using heat is unnecessary for this type of liquid polymer dispersion.

2. Low Viscosity Issue

The issue of the gel being too thin, even after pH adjustment, likely stems from two main causes that should be checked and corrected:

A. Check the Optimal pH

• The Problem: While adjusting the pH to 6.5 activates (neutralizes) ThickClean™ to form a gel, the optimal pH range for maximum viscosity and stability for this product is pH 5.5 (recommended working range is pH 4-6).
• Recommendation:
  • Try adjusting the formula's pH down to the range of 5.5 - 6.0 using an acid (such as Lactic Acid or Citric Acid, dissolved in water first).
  • A pH above 6.5 may cause a drop in viscosity, especially in the presence of salts or certain surfactants.

B. Check the Formula Components (Surfactant System)

• ThickClean™ is designed to increase viscosity by cross-linking with surfactants (detergents), particularly anionic surfactants, which are essential components of a shower gel.
• Recommendation:
  • Ensure that your formula contains an appropriate amount of surfactants (e.g., SLES, CAPB, etc., typically 10-20% depending on the type) for ThickClean™ to function effectively. If your test batch only contains ThickClean™ and water, it will not achieve the proper viscosity.

C. Increase Concentration (If Necessary)

• If you have adjusted the pH to 5.5-6.0 and have an appropriate amount of surfactants, but the viscosity is still insufficient, you can slightly increase the proportion of ThickClean™ (e.g., from 9 grams to 10-12 grams) to achieve the desired viscosity.

Summary of Steps to Fix:

1. Verify: Does your formula contain surfactants?
2. Adjust pH: Gradually lower the formula's pH from 6.5 to 5.5 - 6.0 and observe the increase in viscosity.
3. Increase Proportion: If it is still too thin, slightly increase the amount of ThickClean™.