PVP K 90 USP
PVP K 90 USP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone K-90) is a high molecular weight water-soluble polymer widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications. Known for its excellent film-forming, adhesive, and thickening properties, PVP K 90 is particularly valued where higher viscosity and stronger binding are required. This grade meets USP standards, ensuring purity and suitability for pharmaceutical use, especially in sustained-release formulations, suspensions, and topical products.
PVP K 90 USP
Primary Uses
Pharmaceutical Industry
Used as a binder in tablets and granules, providing enhanced mechanical strength due to its high molecular weight.
Functions as a suspending and viscosity-increasing agent in liquid formulations and injectables.
Employed in controlled-release formulations to regulate drug release kinetics.
Acts as a film former for protective coatings on tablets and topical products.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
Utilized as a thickener, stabilizer, and film former in creams, lotions, shampoos, and hair styling products.
Enhances moisture retention and skin feel in various skincare formulations.
Industrial Applications
Used as a dispersant and stabilizer in adhesives, inks, and paints.
Applied in the formulation of photographic chemicals and other specialty products.
Secondary Uses
Food Industry
Occasionally used as a stabilizer and emulsifier under regulatory approval.
Laboratory Uses
Serves as a matrix component in biochemical and molecular biology research.
 Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Poly(1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)
- Common/Trade Name: PVP K 90 USP
- CAS Number: 9003-39-8
- HS Code: 3906.90.10
- Synonyms: Polyvinylpyrrolidone K-90; Povidone K90
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Fine white to off-white powder
- Solubility: Soluble in water and some polar solvents
- Molecular Weight: Approximately 360,000 Da (K value 90)
- pH (1% solution): 4.0 – 7.0
- Odor & Color: Odorless or slight characteristic odor; white powder
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally non-irritant
- Exposure Limits: Follow occupational safety guidelines for dust
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from moisture and incompatible substances
- Container Type: Sealed bags or drums
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation; use appropriate respiratory protection
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with USP monograph for Polyvinylpyrrolidone
- Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for specified uses
- Manufactured under GMP conditions
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low aquatic toxicity
- Bioaccumulation: Not significant
PPE Required: Dust mask, gloves, and eye protection recommended
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; minimize dust exposure
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed and stored in a dry environment away from moisture
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if irritation occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention if needed
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; consult a physician if large quantities ingested
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Combustible dust may cause explosive atmospheres
Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, COâ‚‚
Special Precautions: Avoid dust accumulation; use respiratory and protective clothing
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Fresh Herbs
Ground Spices
Whole Spices
Spice Blends
Dried Herbs
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders