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POLYURETHANE-39

POLYURETHANE-39

Polyurethane-39 is an associative rheology modifier that provides a waxy after-feel and enhances the texture and application of cosmetic formulations, such as conditioners and creams.

Polyurethane-39 is a synthetic, aqueous solution of a polyurethane alkoylate polymer that performs effectively across a wide pH range (2-12) and in high electrolyte conditions, making it ideal for use in skin, sun, and hair care products.

Unlike most thickeners, Polyurethane-39 is stable in saline environments and does not require pre-swelling, simplifying the production process for cosmetics and allowing for varied viscosities in end products.

EC Number: 618-449-1

Synonyms: Polyurethane Y-304, 25036-33-3, 1,2-Ethanediol, polymer with 1,1′-methylenebis(4-isocyanatobenzene) (9CI), DTXSID00179745, ethane-1,2-diol;1-isocyanato-4-[(4-isocyanatophenyl)methyl]benzene, PU foam, Urethane, Polyurethane foam, Polyurethane resin, Polyurethane coating, Polyurethane elastomer, PU, Urethane foam, Synthetic resin, Plastic foam, Rigid foam, Flexible foam, Polyurethane adhesive, Polyurethane sealant, Polyurethane binder, Polyurethane varnish

Polyurethane-39 is a synthetic polymer primarily used in cosmetics for its ability to control viscosity, meaning it helps increase or decrease the thickness of a product.

Polyurethane-39 is a copolymer composed of PEG-140 and hexamethylene diisocyanate, which is end-capped with surfactants like C12-14 Pareth-10 and C18-20 Pareth-11.

This makes Polyurethane-39 effective in enhancing the texture and application of cosmetic formulations, such as conditioners and creams. 

Polyurethane-39 is commonly found in products like hair conditioners and skincare serums.

While Polyurethane-39 is considered safe for use in cosmetics, it is important to note that its presence is minimal, typically in concentrations as low as 0.02% in cosmetic formulations.

However, Polyurethane-39 can sometimes cause skin irritation for individuals with sensitivities.

Polyurethane-39 is a synthetic, aqueous solution of a polyurethane alkoylate polymer.

Polyurethane-39 is a colorless to slightly yellowish, clear to slightly opaque liquid with a characteristic low odor.

Polyurethane-39 is a pH insensitive non-ionic electrolyte tolerant polyurethane based associative rheology modifier for skin and sun care applications.

Polyurethane-39 is a rheology modifier with a luxurious sensorial experience for rinse off tasks. 

Polyurethane-39 is ideal for use in a wide range of hair care applications.

Polyurethane-39 is an associative rheology modifier that provides a waxy after-feel

Polyurethane-39 is a non-ionic, electrolyte-tolerant and polyurethane-based rheology modifier. 

Polyurethane-39 provides enriched skin and high active levels in sun-care formulations. 

Moreover, Polyurethane-39 is used in color cosmetics and cleansing products even when a wide pH range is required. 

Polyurethane-39 finds application in formulating conditioners and body-care products.

Polyurethane-39 is an associative thickening agent for skin, sun and hair care preparations that performs across a wide pH range (2-12).

Polyurethane-39 is a synthetic, aqueous solution of a polyurethane alkoylate polymer. 

Polyurethane-39 – polymer thickener for skin care products:

Polyurethane-39 is a new rheology modifier based on polyurethane. 

Polyurethane-39 is characterized by a high thickening capacity, and retains its properties even under very difficult conditions. 

So, modern skin care products and sunscreen lotions contain a significant amount of salts, which is due to the presence of active ingredients in their composition. 

Unlike most thickeners on the market, Polyurethane-39 is stable in saline environments without sacrificing performance. 

In addition, Polyurethane-39 can be used over a very wide pH range. 

The chemical structure of this new thickener determines Polyurethane-39’s reactivity to cationic, anionic and zwitterionic surfactants and emulsifiers, as well as the absence of the need for neutralization. 

Using Polyurethane-39, Formulators can produce end products of varying viscosities, from light lotions to thick creams. 

These products are distinguished by their ability to make the skin especially beautiful and luxurious. 

Finally, the choice of Polyurethane-39 thickener leads to a simplification of cosmetic production. 

Polyurethane-39 does not require pre-swelling, and its liquid form makes it possible to introduce a thickener into the composition at any stage of the production process.

Polyurethane-39 is an associative thickener for emulsions that performs in a wide pH range (2-12) even under tight conditions, such as high electrolyte content. 

Additionally Polyurethane-39 stabilizes very good air bubbles (e.g. for mousse applications). 

Polyurethane-39 gives a dry and waxy after-feel.

Polyurethane-39 is a rheology modifier with a luxurious sensorial experience for rinse off tasks. 

Polyurethane-39 is a colorless to slightly yellowish, clear to slightly opaque liquid with a characteristic low odor. 

Polyurethane-39 is a pH insensitive non-ionic electrolyte tolerant polyurethane based associative rheology modifier for skin and sun care applications.

Polyurethane-39 is a non-ionic associative rheology modifier developed specifically for skin and sun care applications. 

Because of its innovative polyurethane technology, Polyurethane-39 provides outstanding thickening efficiency under challenging conditions, such as high salt concentrations or extreme pH values.

A synthetic polymer containing the group –NH–CO–O– linking the monomers. 

Polyurethane 39 of polyurethanes can bemade, and they are used in adhesives,durable paints and varnishes,plastics, and rubbers. 

Addition ofwater to the polyurethane plasticsturns them into foams.

Polyurethane 39 is present in many aspects of modern life. 

They represent a class of polymers that have found a widespread use in the medical, automotive and industrial fields. 

Polyurethane 39 can be found in products such as furniture, coatings, adhesives, constructional materials, filters, paddings, paints, elastomers and synthetic skins. 

Polyurethane 39 is replacing older polymers for various reasons. 

The United States government is phasing out chlorinated rubber in marine and aircraft and coatings because they contain environmentally hazardous volatile organic compounds. 

Auto manufacturers are replacing latex rubber in car seats and interior padding with Polyurethane 39 foam because of lower density and greater flexibility. 

Other advantages of Polyurethane 39 is that they have increased tensile strength and melting points making them more durable. 

Their resistance to degradation by water, oils, and solvents make them excellent for the replacement of plastics. 

As coatings, they exhibit excellent adhesion to many substances, abrasion resistance, electrical properties and weather resistance for industrial purposes.

Worldwide, more and more attention is being focused on Polyurethane 39 recycling due to on-going changes in both regulatory and environmental issues. 

Increasing landfill costs and decreasing landfill space are forcing consideration of alternative options for the disposal of polyurethane materials. 

Polyurethane 39 is successfully recycled from a variety of consumer products, including: appliances, automobiles, bedding, carpet cushion, upholstered furniture. 

The polyurethane industry has identified workable technologies for recovering and recycling polyurethane 39 waste materials from discarded products as well as from manufacturing processes. 

For example, in 2002, 850 million pounds of Polyurethane 39 were used to make carpet cushion, of which 830 million pounds were made from scrap polyurethane foam. 

Of the total scrap used, 50 million pounds came from post-consumer waste. 

EC Draft directive for end-of-life vehicles (ELV) disposal reported that in the year 2005, 15.0% of vehicle weight is disposed (maximum) to landfill, and predicted that in the year 2015, only 5.0% of vehicle weight will be disposed (maximum) to landfill. 

The polyurethane 39 industry is committed to meeting the current needs of today without compromising the needs of tomorrow. 

The continued development of recycling and recovery technologies, investment in infrastructure necessary to support them, the establishment of viable markets and participation by industry, government and consumers are all priorities.

Applications of Polyurethane-39:

Polyurethane 39 is one of the most versatile materials in the world today. 

Their many uses range from flexible foam in upholstered furniture, to rigid foam as insulation in walls, roofs and appliances to thermoplastic polyurethane used in medical devices and footwear, to coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomers used on floors and automotive interiors. 

Polyurethane 39 has increasingly been used during the past thirty years in a variety of applications due to their comfort, cost benefits, energy savings and potential environmental soundness. 

Polyurethane 39 durability contributes significantly to the long lifetimes of many products. 

The extensions of product life cycle and resource conservation are important environmental considerations that often favor the selection of Polyurethane 39. 

Polyurethane 39 represent an important class of thermoplastic and thermoset polymers as their mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties can be tailored by the reaction of various polyols and poly-isocyanates.

Polyurethane 39 is a polymer containing the urethane group. 

Polyurethane 39 find a wide variety of applications in many industries. 

In fact, mollifiable polymers (hydrophobic) like bitumen, polyvinyl acetate and polyurethane form a major class of soil conditioners. 

Polyurethane 39 resins and the foams are also used as florists’ mounting media or plant growth media.

There is a fundamental difference between the manufacture of most Polyurethane 39 and the manufacture of many other plastics.  

Polymers such as poly(ethene) and poly(propene) are produced in chemical plants and sold as granules, powders or films.  

Products are subsequently made from them by heating the polymer, shaping Polyurethane 39 under pressure and cooling it.  

The properties of such end-products are almost completely dependent on those of the original polymer.

Polyurethane 39, on the other hand are usually made directly into the final product.  

Much of the Polyurethane 39 produced are in the form of large blocks of foam, which are cut up for use in cushions, or for thermal insulation.  

The chemical reaction can also take place in moulds, leading to, for example, a car bumper, a computer casing or a building panel.  

Polyurethane 39 may occur as the liquid reactants are sprayed onto a building surface or coated on a fabric.

Polyurethane-39 has several uses, mainly in the cosmetic and personal care industry due to its versatility in controlling the viscosity of products.

Here are some common uses:

Viscosity Control:

Polyurethane-39 is primarily used to adjust the thickness of cosmetic formulations, allowing for better spreadability and texture in products like creams, lotions, and gels.

Film Forming:

Polyurethane-39 helps in creating a thin, flexible layer on the skin or hair, which can provide a protective barrier.

This is beneficial in hair care products like conditioners, especially those designed for color-treated or damaged hair​.

Stabilizer:

Polyurethane-39 can help stabilize emulsions in cosmetic products, ensuring that ingredients that typically separate (like oils and water) remain blended.

Improved Product Feel:

Polyurethane-39 can enhance the sensory properties of a product, making it smoother or lighter to the touch, contributing to a more pleasant application experience.

Other Applications:

Bath and shower products

Conditioner

Ethnic hair

Hair spray

Shampoo

Skin cream and lotion

Styling product

Sun protection

Skin Care

Cleanser

Sun Care

Mother and baby

Bath and Body

Body care

Antiperspirants and deodorants

Face Care

Self Tanning

Features of Polyurethane-39:

Viscosity Control:

Polyurethane-39 can increase or decrease the viscosity of formulations, making it useful for both thin, liquid products and thicker creams and gels​.

Film-Forming Ability:

Polyurethane-39 forms a flexible, breathable film on the skin or hair, which is ideal for products like hair conditioners and serums that need to stay on for prolonged periods​.

Stability Enhancer:

Polyurethane-39 helps stabilize emulsions, preventing the separation of ingredients like oils and water in products​.

Synthetic Polymer:

As a synthetic ingredient, Polyurethane-39 offers consistent performance and stability across a range of cosmetic formulations​.

Benefits of Polyurethane-39:

Improved Texture and Feel:

By adjusting viscosity, Polyurethane-39 makes products smoother, easier to apply, and more pleasant to use.

Polyurethane-39 enhances the sensory experience by making products feel lighter and more comfortable on the skin​.

Protective Barrier:

The film Polyurethane-39 forms on the skin or hair provides a protective barrier, helping to lock in moisture and protect from environmental damage​.

Versatility:

Polyurethane-39 can be used in a variety of products, from hair conditioners to facial serums, adding flexibility to formulations without compromising the final product quality​.

Product Stability:

Polyurethane-39’s ability to stabilize emulsions ensures that cosmetic products maintain a uniform consistency, extending shelf life and performance​.

Properties of Polyurethane-39:  

Polyurethane 39 were first produced and investigated by Dr. Otto Bayer in 1937. 

Polyurethane 39 is a polymer in which the repeating unit contains a urethane moiety. 

Urethanes are derivatives of carbamic acids that exist only in the form of their esters. 

The major advantage of Polyurethane 39 is that the chain is not composed exclusively of carbon atoms but rather of heteroatoms, oxygen, carbon and nitrogen.

For industrial applications, a polyhydroxyl compound can be used. 

Similarly, poly-functional nitrogen compounds can be used at the amide linkages. 

By changing and varying the polyhydroxyl and polyfunctional nitrogen compounds, different Polyurethane 39 can be synthesized. 

Polyester or polyether resins containing hydroxyl groups are used to produce polyesteror polyether-PU, respectively. 

Variations in the number of substitutions and the spacing between and within branch chains produce Polyurethane 39 ranging from linear to branched to rigid. 

Linear Polyurethane 39 is used for the manufacture of fibers and molding. 

Flexible Polyurethane 39 is used in the production of binding agents and coatings. 

Flexible and rigid foamed plastics, which make up the majority of Polyurethane 39 produced, can be found in various forms in industry. 

Using low molecular mass prepolymers, various block copolymers can be produced. 

The terminal hydroxyl group allows for alternating blocks, called segments, to be inserted into the Polyurethane 39 chain. 

Variation in these segments results in varying degrees of tensile strength and elasticity. 

Blocks providing rigid crystalline phase and containing the chain extender are referred to as hard segments. 

Those yielding an amorphous rubbery phase and containing the polyester/polyether are called soft segments. 

Commercially, these block polymers are known as segmented Polyurethane 39.

Experimental Properties:

Urethane-based associative rheology modifier

Thickens a broad range of formulations independent of the electrolyte / salt concentration

Easy to use

Flexible dosing

Cold processable

Designed for enriched skin and sun care formulations with highactive levels

Wide pH range of 2-12

Performance profile of Polyurethane-39:

Associative thickener that interacts with structured hydrophobic ingredients in the formulation

No neutralization or pre-swelling needed

Very good electrolyte tolerance

Influence on sensory properties

Preparation of Polyurethane-39:

Polyurethane 39 foams are prepared by the polymerization of polyols with isocyanates. 

One of the most commonly used reactive isocyanates toluenediisocyanate, TDI. 

Polyurethane 39 is made from toluene by nitration and then reduction followed by treatment with phosgene. 

The isocyanate residue reacts readily with alcohols to give carbamates (urethanes) or amines to give ureas.

After years of production of PUs, manufacturers found them susceptible to degradation. 

Variations in the degradation patterns of different samples of Polyurethane 39 was attributed to the manyproperties of PUs such as topology and chemical composition. 

Enzyme molecules can easily come in contact with water-soluble substrates thus allowing the enzymatic reaction to proceed rapidly.

However, the enzyme molecules are thought to have an extremely inefficient contract with insoluble substrates (e.g. PU). 

In order to overcome this obstacle, enzymes that degrade insoluble substrates possess some characteristic that allows them to adhere onto the surface of the insoluble substrate.

Thus far, only two types of PUase enzymes have been isolated and characterized: a cell associated, membrane bound PU-esterase and soluble, extracellular PU-esterases. 

The two types of Polyurethane 39 seem to have separate roles in Polyurethane 39 degradation. 

The membrane bound Polyurethane 39 would allow cell-mediated contact with the insoluble PU substrate while, the cell-free extracellular PU-esterases would bind to the surface of the PU substrate and subsequent hydrolysis. 

Both enzyme actions would be advantageous for the PU-degrading bacteria. 

The adherence of the bacteria cell to the Polyurethane 39 substrate via the PUase would allow for the hydrolysis of the substrate to soluble metabolites that would then be metabolism by the cell. 

This mechanism of Polyurethane 39 degradation would decrease competition between the PU-degrading cell with other cells and also allow for more adequate access to the metabolites. 

The soluble, extracellular PU-esterase would in turn hydrolyze the polymer into smaller units allowing for metabolism of soluble products and easier access for enzymes to the partially degraded polymer.

History of Polyurethane-39:

Polyurethane-39, like other polyurethanes, is part of a broader class of synthetic polymers that were first developed in the 1930s by Dr. Otto Bayer and his team in Germany.

The original polyurethanes were created for industrial applications like foams and coatings, but their use in personal care products came much later, as the cosmetic industry began to explore polymers for their versatility in texture and formulation stability.

The introduction of polymers into cosmetics allowed for innovations in the texture, durability, and performance of products.

Polyurethane-39 emerged as a more specialized polymer used primarily in cosmetics, particularly for controlling viscosity and forming a flexible film in formulations like conditioners, creams, and gels​.

Over time, Polyurethane-39’s unique combination of chemical stability and film-forming properties made it a popular choice in both skincare and haircare products, especially those requiring long-lasting effects or moisture retention​.

Today, Polyurethane-39 is commonly used in a variety of personal care products, with its popularity driven by the demand for enhanced product textures and the need for formulations that provide a protective barrier or prolonged moisture on the skin or hair.

Polyurethane-39’s development is part of the ongoing evolution of cosmetic chemistry, which aims to blend functional benefits with consumer experience.

Handling and Storage of Polyurethane-39:

Handling:

Avoid inhaling vapors, mist, or dust from Polyurethane-39-containing products.

Use in well-ventilated areas.

Minimize contact with skin and eyes.

Wear protective gloves and safety glasses when handling.

Handle according to good industrial hygiene and safety procedures.

Storage:

Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.

Keep the product away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and incompatible materials like strong acids or bases.

Ensure that containers are labeled properly and stored upright to prevent spillage.

Stability and Reactivity of Polyurethane-39:

Stability:

Polyurethane-39 is generally stable under normal conditions of use and storage.

Reactivity:

Polyurethane-39 may react with strong oxidizing agents, acids, or bases.

Avoid exposure to extreme heat or open flames, which could lead to the breakdown of the polymer and release harmful byproducts.

First Aid Measures of Polyurethane-39:

Inhalation:

If inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air.

If they experience difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Skin Contact:

Wash the affected area with soap and water. 

If irritation or redness persists, consult a doctor.

Eye Contact:

Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.

If irritation persists, seek medical attention.

Ingestion:

Rinse the mouth with water.

Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional.

Seek immediate medical attention.

Firefighting Measures of Polyurethane-39:

Extinguishing Media:

Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide (CO₂) to extinguish fires involving Polyurethane-39.

Special Hazards:

During combustion, toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) may be released.

Firefighting Instructions:

Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective gear to prevent exposure to toxic fumes.

Accidental Release Measures of Polyurethane-39:

Personal Precautions:

Wear personal protective equipment, including gloves, safety goggles, and masks.

Ensure adequate ventilation.

Spill Response:

Contain the spill and avoid releasing Polyurethane-39 into the environment.

Absorb with inert materials like sand, then collect and dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

Clean the spill area with water after material removal.

Exposure Controls / Personal Protection of Polyurethane-39:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Eyes/Face:

Safety goggles or face shields.

Skin:

Protective gloves and long-sleeved clothing to minimize skin contact.

Respiratory:

Use a mask or respirator if handling large quantities or if the product generates dust or fumes.

Engineering Controls:

Use adequate ventilation systems or local exhaust to minimize exposure to airborne particles.

Ensure workplace safety measures, such as eyewash stations and safety showers, are in place.

Identifiers of Polyurethane-39:

EINECS: 618-449-1

Chem/IUPAC Name: Polyurethane-39 is a copolymer of PEG-140 and hexamethylene diisocyanate end-capped with C12-14 Pareth-10, C16-18 Pareth-11, and C18-20 Pareth-11

COSING REF No: 85976

INCI Name: Polyurethane-39

Synonym: Luvigel STAR

Properties of Polyurethane-39:

Assay: 95.00 to 100.00

Food Chemicals Codex Listed: No

Appearance: Transparent and viscous non-ionic aqueous dispersion