Usage Details for Carbomer Ultrez 21: Slow Swelling and Cloudy Texture
Question
Could you please provide details on how to use `Carbomer Ultrez 21`?
I am experiencing issues where it takes a very long time to swell and disperse completely in water. Additionally, sometimes when I mix it with a base, the resulting texture is cloudy instead of clear.
What is the recommended usage method to address these problems?
Answer
How to Use Carbomer Ultrez 21
Carbomer Ultrez 21 is a Self-Wetting gel maker designed to disperse more easily in water compared to older Carbomer types. However, achieving complete dispersion for a clear and viscous gel may still require time and proper mixing.
Issues with Slow Swelling and Cloudy Texture:
- Dispersion: Although it is a Self-Wetting type, it is still recommended to slowly sprinkle the Carbomer Ultrez 21 powder into the water phase while stirring or using a blender. This helps the powder disperse evenly and reduces clumping. Insufficient stirring might prevent some powder from swelling completely, making it seem like it takes a long time.
- Neutralization: Carbomer develops its full gel structure and viscosity when neutralized (pH is raised). Typically, alkaline substances like Triethanolamine (TEA) or AMP (2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol) are used. The neutralizing agent should be added only after the Carbomer has fully dispersed in the water. Adjusting the pH causes the Carbomer molecules to uncoil and form the gel network.
- Gel Clarity: For Carbomer Ultrez 21, if you desire exceptional gel clarity, especially in formulations with a high proportion of alcohol, it is recommended to use AMP (2-Amino-2-methyl-1-propanol) as the neutralizing agent. Using other alkaline substances or other ingredients in the base you are mixing with might affect the clarity of the gel.
Recommended Usage Steps:
- Prepare the water phase.
- Slowly sprinkle the Carbomer Ultrez 21 powder into the water phase while stirring or using a blender for optimal dispersion.
- Continue stirring or blending until the Carbomer powder is fully dispersed and swollen in the water (this may take some time depending on the amount and mixing).
- Once the Carbomer is fully dispersed and swollen, slowly add the neutralizing agent (e.g., AMP) little by little while stirring or blending until the desired gel viscosity and clarity are achieved (the optimal pH range for Carbomer Ultrez 21 gel formation is 5-11).
- Add other remaining ingredients to the formulation.
If the gel is still cloudy after following these steps, you might need to consider other ingredients in the base you are mixing with to see if any are incompatible or interfering with the Carbomer's gel formation.
