Polyglyceryl
Polyglyceryl refers to a family of non-ionic surfactants and emulsifiers made by the polymerization of glycerol units. Depending on the number of glycerol units (e.g., Polyglyceryl-2, -3, -6, -10) and fatty acid esterification (e.g., laurate, oleate, stearate), they offer different emulsifying and solubilizing properties. These compounds are biodegradable, mild, and skin-friendly, making them ideal for use in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. Polyglyceryl esters are often chosen in natural and organic product formulations due to their origin and non-toxic profile.
Polyglyceryl
Primary Uses
- Cosmetics & Personal Care Products
- Serve as emulsifiers in creams, lotions, sunscreens, serums, and cleansers.
- Excellent for oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions depending on HLB value.
- Provide a light, non-greasy feel, making them suitable for facial care and sensitive skin products.
- Common in natural, vegan, and clean-label cosmetic formulations.
- Food Industry
- Used as food-grade emulsifiers and dispersing agents (especially Polyglyceryl esters of fatty acids).
- Help stabilize emulsions in sauces, dressings, ice cream, and non-dairy creamers.
- Improve mouthfeel and texture in reduced-fat or low-calorie foods.
- Approved for use under various food additive codes (e.g., E475, E476).
- Pharmaceutical Formulations
- Act as emulsifiers and solubilizers for oral suspensions, creams, and suppositories.
- Improve the solubility and delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
- Used in topical preparations to enhance absorption and skin feel.
- Baby Care & Sensitive Skin Products
- Due to their non-irritating, non-sensitizing nature, they are widely used in baby lotions, creams, and shampoos.
- Ideal for eczema and allergy-prone formulations.
Secondary Uses
- Oral Care
- Used as mild emulsifiers and solubilizers in toothpastes, mouthwashes, and dental gels.
- Makeup & Color Cosmetics
- Help disperse pigments uniformly in foundations, BB creams, mascaras, and lip products.
- Improve long-wear and spreadability.
- Hair Care
- Used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks to enhance foam stability and moisture retention.
- Pet Care Products
- Incorporated in grooming sprays, lotions, and medicated baths for pets due to their non-toxic nature.
- Industrial & Biotech Applications
- Used in bio-lubricants, enzyme formulations, and fermentation processes for their stabilizing properties.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polyglycerol or Polyglyceryl esters (depends on variant)
- Common/Trade Name: Polyglyceryl (e.g., Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate)
- CAS Number: Varies by type (e.g., 29894-35-7 for Polyglyceryl-3)
- HS Code: 3402.13.00 (Non-ionic surfactants)
- Synonyms: Poly(glycerol); Polyglycerol esters; PG-esters
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid, viscous paste, or soft solid (depends on molecular weight)
- Color & Odor: Colorless to pale yellow; mild to neutral odor
- Solubility: Varies (water-dispersible to water-soluble)
- HLB Value: Broad range (from 4 to 14 depending on ester type)
- pH (1% solution): ~5.0–7.5
- Acid Value: Typically <10 mg KOH/g
- Saponification Value: 80–180 mg KOH/g
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Non-toxic; suitable for ingestion and topical use
- Irritation Potential: Very low; suitable for sensitive skin and mucosal membranes
- Allergen Status: Allergen-free, non-sensitizing
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place (15–25°C)
- Container Type: HDPE drums, food-grade pails, or IBCs
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years under optimal storage conditions
- Handling Precautions: Avoid contamination; use clean, dry equipment during handling
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with:
- EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009
- FDA GRAS status (for specific esters in food)
- ECOCERT and COSMOS-approved (many types)
- REACH registered
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected
- Allergenic Potential: Very low; suitable for hypoallergenic products
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves and goggles for bulk handling
- Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin exposure in concentrated form
- Ensure clean tools and containers to avoid contamination
- Storage Measures: Protect from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Unlikely; move to fresh air if mist inhaled
- Skin Contact: Rinse with water; safe at cosmetic levels
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Ingestion: Generally safe; in large quantities, seek medical advice
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Flash Point: >200°C
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, CO₂, foam, or dry chemical
- Special Precautions: Use standard firefighting gear
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide
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