INTRODUCTION:
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is a water-soluble synthetic polymer obtained from the polymerization of N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone. It is widely used across pharmaceutical, biomedical, and industrial applications due to its excellent biocompatibility, low toxicity, strong film-forming ability, and exceptional solubilizing and stabilizing properties. PVP is chemically stable, relatively inert, and resistant to thermal degradation, making it a versatile functional polymer.
- Synthetic, non-ionic, water-soluble polymer
- Linear polymer composed of N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone units
- Available in a wide range of molecular weights (commonly expressed as K-values, e.g., K-30, K-90)
- Typically supplied as white to off-white hygroscopic powder.
|
Synonym |
PVP, Povidone, Polyvidone, Poly[1-(2-oxo-1-pyrrolidinyl) ethylene] |
|---|---|
|
CAS no. |
9003-39-8 |
|
Molecular formula |
(C6 H9 NO)n |
|
Common Grades (K-values): |
K-15, K-30, K-90. |
|
Structure |
|
MANUFACTURE:
It is typically manufactured by free-radical polymerization of N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone monomer. Industrial production may also utilize the Reppe synthesis route to prepare the monomer, followed by controlled polymerization to achieve desired molecular weight and performance characteristics.
APPLICATION:
Advanced Materials / Nanotechnology
- Carrying polymer for electrospinning of continuous titania nanofibers and zirconium tungstate ultra-thin fibers
- Structure-directing agent in fabrication of metal oxide nanofibers and porous materials
- Acts as a reducing agent and colloidal stabilizer in synthesis of palladium nanobars, triangular nanoplates, and related nanostructures
- Serves as a capping agent to control nanoparticle size, morphology, and dispersion stability
Pharmaceutical
- Tablet binder and granulation aid
- Solubilizing agent for poorly water-soluble drugs (solid dispersions)
- Stabilizer in suspensions and emulsions
- Film-forming agent in coatings
Food & Beverage
- Clarifying agent in beverages such as beer and wine
- Stabilizer for flavors, colors, and active ingredients
- Used as a processing aid in food formulations
Cosmetic / Personal-care
- Film-forming agent in hair sprays, gels, and styling products
- Binder and stabilizer in creams and lotions
- Enhances texture, spreadability, and formulation stability
Toiletry & Hygiene
- Used in toothpaste and oral care formulations as a binder and stabilizer
- Provides viscosity control and formulation consistency
Photographic / Imaging
- Protective colloid and binder in photographic emulsions
- Used in coating formulations for imaging films and specialty papers
It is widely used because it
- Has excellent solubility in water and many organic solvents
- Provides strong steric stabilization for nanoparticles and colloids
- Forms clear, flexible, and adhesive films
- Is biocompatible, non-toxic, and chemically stable functions as both a performance enhancer and processing aid
SPECIFICATIONS:
|
Test |
Unit |
Specification |
|---|---|---|
|
Description |
- |
White to off-white hygroscopic powder |
|
Identification |
a) By IR Absorption/NMR Spectrum |
The infrared absorption/NMR spectrum of the test sample should be concordant with the reference spectrum of PVP |
|
b) By solubility |
Freely soluble in water and alcohol |
|
|
K-Value (Molecular Weight Indicator) |
- |
As specified (e.g., K-30, K-90) |
|
pH (5% solution) |
- |
3.0 – 7.0 |
|
Moisture Content |
% |
NMT 5.0 |
|
Residue on Ignition (Ash) |
% |
NMT 0.1 |
|
Residual Monomer (N-vinylpyrrolidone) |
ppm |
NMT 10 |
|
Heavy Metals |
ppm |
Complies with pharmacopeial limits |
STORAGE & PRECAUTION:
Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Protect from moisture due to hygroscopic nature.
PACKING:
HDPE bags / fiber drums with inner polyethylene liner
GMP STATUS:
Manufactured under cGMP or non GMP conditions based on customer specifications and intended application.
COMMERCIAL NOTE:
PVP is available in multiple grades with tailored molecular weight (K-values) to meet specific requirements across pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and industrial applications.
ICS offers Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on commercial scales and welcomes enquiries. No matter the quantity you need, our exceptional quality & services will make ICS your supplier of choice. For additional information or Safety Data Sheet (SDS), please contact us at- info@itsusainc.com or Phone# 713-337-0152.
