Polyacrylic acid

Polyacrylic acid (CAS 9003-01-4), commonly known as PAA and sold under the Carbomer trade name in cosmetic grades, is a synthetic polymer used across industrial and personal care markets. It functions as a rheology modifier, scale inhibitor, and flocculant depending on the application.

This versatile chemical is valued for its ability to thicken, disperse, and sequester metal ions. In water treatment, PAA controls scale formation in cooling towers, boilers, and reverse osmosis systems by inhibiting calcium carbonate and calcium sulfate deposits.

Personal care formulators use Carbomer grades to build viscosity and stabilize emulsions in gels, creams, and lotions. In textile and paper processing, PAA acts as a dispersant for pigments and a retention aid during manufacturing processes.

Agricultural formulations use it to improve water retention in soil conditioners and as a carrier in slow-release fertilizer systems. Polyacrylic acid is supplied as a liquid solution or dry powder, with molecular weight being the primary specification variable.

Low-MW grades suit water treatment while high-MW grades serve thickening applications. Carbomer grades, such as Carbomer 940 and 980, are available to USP and Ph.Eur. standards for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use.

Technical grades are available for industrial applications including construction admixtures and textile processing. These grades ensure performance in demanding environments where high-purity pharmaceutical standards are not required for the final product.