Thickening a Surfactant Formula (Cocamidopropyl Betaine) with Acrylates Copolymer: Neutralization Issue

The reason your formula did not thicken after adding ThickClean™ (Acrylates Copolymer) is that this type of polymer requires neutralization (raising the pH) to activate its thickening mechanism.

You need to add an alkaline agent (base) to adjust the pH of the mixture.

Recommended Neutralizing Agent

The most common and effective neutralizing agent for Acrylates Copolymer thickeners like ThickClean™ is Triethanolamine 99% (TEA) (ID: 139).

Steps to Achieve Thickening

1. Mix Surfactants and Thickener: Ensure your water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine (10%), and ThickClean™ (1.5%) are fully mixed.
2. Add Neutralizer: Slowly add Triethanolamine 99% drop by drop, while continuously stirring the mixture.
3. Target pH: According to the ThickClean™ product description, you should adjust the pH value to the range of 6.2-6.6 to achieve initial neutralization and thickening.
4. Monitor Viscosity: The mixture will start to thicken significantly as the pH rises into the target range. Stop adding the neutralizer once the desired viscosity is reached.
5. Final pH Check: After thickening, you may need to adjust the final pH down slightly (using a mild acid like Citric Acid or Lactic Acid) to the skin-friendly range of pH 5.5 (which is also within ThickClean™'s working range of pH 4-6).

Note on Triethanolamine Usage: The recommended usage rate for Triethanolamine 99% is 0.1-2.5%. Use only the amount necessary to reach the desired pH and viscosity.