Thickener 6000DS (powder) and thickener 638 (liquid) are both PEG-150 distearate nonionic thickeners, differing in form and dispersion method; the recommended dosage is typically 0.5%~5.0% of the total formulation, and the optimal amount should be determined through experimentation based on target viscosity.
Detailed Explanation
Thickener 6000DS is a white to off-white powder that needs to be dispersed and dissolved in hot water, suitable for water-based formulations requiring precise metering and with low clarity requirements. Its thickening mechanism involves full hydration and swelling under heating (usually 60~75°C), forming a stable thickening network upon cooling, making it more suitable for hot-mix processes. It is widely used in industrial fields such as water-based coatings, adhesives, and textile printing pastes.
Thickener 638 is a slightly yellow transparent liquid, a pre-dispersed or modified version of 6000DS. Its biggest advantage is supporting cold-mix processes—it can be directly added to the system at room temperature with stirring, greatly simplifying production and reducing energy consumption. It is particularly suitable for water-based formulations with certain clarity requirements or without heating facilities, such as water-based industrial coatings, latex paints, and water-based inks.
PEG-150, as the main chemical name of this series, generally refers to polyethylene glycol (150) distearate thickeners. Its nonionic nature allows good compatibility with anionic, cationic, and nonionic surfactant systems. In personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, and creams, it acts as both a thickener and an emulsion stabilizer, while also improving foam texture and product suspension ability.
Usage Methods and Recommended Dosage
The product database of Guoli Chemical does not provide exact recommended dosages for each product (actual usage varies greatly depending on formulation system, target viscosity, pH, compatibility with other raw materials, etc.). The following is a reference guide based on product characteristics and industry common practices:
Usage Method for Thickener 6000DS (Powder)
- Pre-dispersion: Slowly add the powder to deionized water (water temperature 60~75°C) while stirring to avoid clumping. Alternatively, pre-mix with a small amount of glycerin or propylene glycol to form a slurry before adding to the water phase.
- Full hydration: Maintain temperature at 65~75°C and stir for 20-30 minutes until the powder is fully swollen and hydrated, resulting in a uniform thickening state.
- Cooling and setting: Cool to room temperature while stirring; the viscosity will further increase and stabilize.
- Add to formulation: Mix the pre-made thickener base with other components, or add directly during the heating stage of the formulation's water phase.
Reference dosage range (based on total formulation):
- Water-based architectural coatings/latex paints: 0.3%~1.5%
- Water-based adhesives: 0.5%~2.0%
- Water-based inks: 0.3%~1.0%
- Textile printing pastes: 1.0%~3.0%
Usage Method for Thickener 638 (Liquid)
- Direct addition: Add the liquid 638 directly to the water-based system while stirring, without pre-heating.
- Thorough stirring: Stir at medium speed for 15-30 minutes until evenly dispersed; the system viscosity gradually builds up.
- Adjust pH: Although this product has a wide pH tolerance, thickening efficiency is optimal in the pH 5.5~8.0 range for some systems. Fine-tune pH using pH adjusters if needed.
Reference dosage range (based on total formulation):
- Latex paints: 0.5%~2.5%
- Water-based industrial coatings: 0.3%~1.5%
- Water-based adhesives: 0.5%~2.0%
- Water-based inks: 0.3%~1.0%
Use of PEG-150 in Personal Care Products
Usually added in powder form (6000DS) during the heating stage of the formulation's water phase, dissolved and dispersed together with surfactants at 70~75°C, then cooled with stirring to achieve thickening. Reference dosage: Shampoo/body wash 0.5%~2.0%; Creams/lotions 1.0%~3.0%; Detergents 0.3%~1.5%.
Application Suggestions
- Selection suggestion: If heating facilities are available and the formulation uses a hot-mix process, recommend the lower-cost thickener 6000DS powder; if process simplification, cold-mix operation, or clarity requirements are needed, prioritize thickener 638 liquid.
- Dosage optimization: For first use, start with gradient tests from the lower end of the recommended range (e.g., 0.3%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%), plot a dosage-viscosity curve, and determine the most economical dosage for the target product.
- Order of addition: In surfactant-containing systems (e.g., shampoo), it is recommended to dissolve PEG-150 together with surfactants in the hot water phase first, then gradually add other components for optimal thickening efficiency and transparent appearance.
- Avoid over-thickening: Excessive dosage may cause the system to become gel-like, poor flow, or "whitening" during application; evaluate based on sensory experience and application performance.
Precautions
- Safety protection: When handling, it is recommended to wear a dust mask (when handling powder), chemical safety goggles, and protective gloves to avoid dust inhalation and prolonged contact with eyes and skin.
- Moisture-proof storage: The product is slightly hygroscopic (especially powder type 6000DS). After opening, seal immediately and store in a cool, dry place with temperature not exceeding 45°C and relative humidity below 70%. Shelf life: two years.
- Electrolyte effect: High concentrations of electrolytes (e.g., salts) may reduce the thickening efficiency of nonionic thickeners. If the formulation contains salts, increase dosage appropriately or verify in advance.
- Dust safety: 6000DS powder is not flammable, but fine dust accumulation mixed with air may form flammable dust clouds. Keep the operation area away from open flames and heat sources, and maintain good ventilation.
