Carbopol® Ultrez 21 is the third generation of smart polymers in Lubrizol's Ultrez series. Equipped with the "Adaptive Rheology System" technology, it is the first to achieve the ability to program rheological behavior with three responses to pH/temperature/shear. It is designed for high-end formulations that require environmental adaptation and precise release control.
Temperature-sensing mask (automatically reduces viscosity and penetrates when in contact with the skin)
Sweat-triggered sunscreen (pH increases to thicken and prevent loss)
2. Precision medicine
Programmed drug delivery system:
Inflammation-responsive ointment (releases drugs when pH decreases)
Tumor-targeted gel (temperature-triggered release)
3. Electronic technology
Functional materials:
Flexible electrode gel (self-healing conductive network)
Optical device packaging (photocuring + temperature stabilization)
Product Advantage
1
Highly effective thickening suspending agent
Applicable to neutral to weakly alkaline systems (pH 6-10), providing high viscosity without neutralization. Excellent suspension stability, suitable for sunscreen, lotion and essence products.
2
Excellent rheological properties
High pseudoplastic fluid properties, shear thinning, and improved skin feel. Remains stable in low temperature or high electrolyte environment.
3
User-friendly
Quick hydration, reducing production time; compatible with a variety of ingredients (such as oils, surfactants).
4
Safe and mild
Low-irritation formula, suitable for sensitive skin care products. Carbon footprint: 0.9kg CO₂/kg (lowest in the industry)
Operation Guide (Brief Steps)
Dispersion: Slowly sprinkle Carbopol U21 into the water phase (recommended 0.1-1% addition amount), and stir at high
speed (800-1500 rpm) to disperse evenly without particles.
Hydration: Let stand for 10-15 minutes (or extend until completely transparent), avoiding the introduction of bubbles.
Adjust pH: If higher viscosity is required, add a neutralizer (such as NaOH, triethanolamine) to adjust to pH 6-10.
Add other ingredients: Add active ingredients, preservatives, etc. at the end, avoiding high temperature shear.
FAQ
Q1: Can U20 be used in silicone oil systems?
A: Compatibility with cyclopentasiloxane: Recommended order of addition: U20 first, then silicone oilViscosity retention: 92% (10% silicone oil content)
Q2: How to solve the slight fluorescence phenomenon?
A: Confirmation: Fluorescent substance detection of raw material batches (need to be <0.1ppm) Avoid compounding with ingredients containing fluorescent brighteners
Q3: How does 0.5% perform under extreme temperatures?
A: Test data: 5℃ viscosity: 32,000-36,000cP 45℃ viscosity: 24,000-28,000cP Viscosity deviation after returning to 25℃ <3%
