Veegum
 Veegum is a purified magnesium aluminum silicate clay known for its excellent suspending, thickening, and stabilizing properties. It is widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial applications as a rheology modifier, suspension stabilizer, and emulsifier. Veegum enhances the texture, consistency, and stability of formulations, providing improved performance in both liquid and semi-solid systems.
Veegum
Primary Uses
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Suspension Stabilizer: Prevents settling of suspended particles in liquid medicines and suspensions.
- Tablet Binder/Disintegrant: Assists in tablet formation and promotes proper disintegration.
- Taste Masking Agent: Improves the palatability of oral dosage forms.
Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Emulsion Stabilizer: Maintains stable oil-in-water emulsions in creams and lotions.
- Rheology Modifier: Adjusts viscosity and flow properties to improve texture and spreadability.
- Texture Enhancer: Provides a smooth, non-tacky feel to skin care and cosmetic products.
Industrial Applications
- Rheology Control Agent: Used in adhesives, coatings, and cleaning products to modify flow behavior.
- Suspension Agent: Stabilizes pigments and particles in various industrial formulations.
Animal Care
- Topical Formulations: Used in creams and ointments for pets to improve consistency.
- Dental Products: Incorporated into animal dental care products for improved texture and stability.
Secondary Uses
Agriculture
- Suspension Agent: Used in pesticide formulations to ensure uniform dispersion of active ingredients.
Food Industry
- Processing Aid: Occasionally used as a stabilizer and thickener in specialty food products under regulatory approval.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
- Common/Trade Name: Veegum
- CAS Number: Not applicable (natural mineral)
- HS Code: 2508.10.00
- Synonyms: Magnesium Aluminum Silicate Clay
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Fine powder
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; odorless
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; swells and disperses forming gels
- Density: Approx. 2.4 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Considered non-toxic; inert mineral material
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; avoid dust inhalation
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture
- Container Type: Bags or bulk containers
- Shelf Life: 24 months under proper storage
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust generation; use appropriate PPE such as masks and gloves
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with major international regulations for pharmaceutical and cosmetic excipients
- Manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- Meets USP/NF requirements when used in pharmaceutical applications
- Suitable for use in cosmetics under relevant cosmetic regulations
- Meets environmental and transport regulations
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Naturally occurring mineral, inert and environmentally safe
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact
- Bioaccumulation: Not significant
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Dust mask, gloves, and eye protection recommended when handling powder
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid creating dust clouds
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed and dry
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash skin with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes; seek medical help if irritation continues
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; obtain medical advice if large quantities are ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Extinguishing Media: Use appropriate extinguishing agents for surrounding fire
- Hazardous Combustion Products: None known