BDO and Its Derivatives, High-Purity Solvents

Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone (PVP)

Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone, commonly abbreviated as PVP and designated by CAS number 9003-39-8, is a versatile synthetic polymer synthesized through the free-radical polymerization of the monomer N-vinylpyrrolidone. This non-ionic, water-soluble compound is characterized by its exceptional film-forming properties, high physiological compatibility, and remarkable ability to form complexes with various organic and inorganic molecules. As a hygroscopic white to off-white powder, PVP exhibits outstanding solubility across a diverse range of polar solvents, including water, alcohols, and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Its molecular structure contains a highly polar amide group within the pyrrolidone ring and a non-polar methylene backbone, imparting unique amphiphilic characteristics. This dual nature allows PVP to act as an effective stabilizer, dispersant, and binder across multiple industries. Its chemical stability remains robust over a wide pH range, and its biocompatible profile ensures it is non-toxic, non-irritating, and environmentally benign, making it indispensable in high-performance pharmaceutical and industrial applications globally. Its utility grows.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Excellent solubility in both aqueous and organic media, facilitating formulation versatility across diverse chemical environments and solvent systems.
Strong film-forming capability, producing clear, flexible, and cohesive coatings that adhere well to various substrates and surfaces.
High physiological inertness and biocompatibility, making it safe for oral, topical, and parenteral routes in medical and personal care products.
Remarkable complexation properties, particularly with iodine and phenolic compounds, enhancing the stability and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Effective dispersant and stabilizing action, preventing the agglomeration of particles in suspensions and ensuring uniform distribution in colloidal systems.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular formula is (C6H9NO)n, with molecular weights ranging from 2,500 to over 1,000,000 Da, categorized by K-values.
Glass transition temperature (Tg) varies with moisture content and molecular weight, typically ranging between 110°C and 190°C.
Highly hygroscopic nature, capable of absorbing up to 40% of its weight in water depending on ambient relative humidity.
Exceptional thermal stability with decomposition occurring above 150°C, and a density approximately between 1.1 and 1.3 grams per cubic centimeter.
Viscosity of aqueous solutions is non-Newtonian and directly proportional to the polymer’s concentration and K-value (molecular weight identifier).

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Pharmaceutical industry: Acts as a primary binder for tablet compression and a solubilizer for poorly water-soluble drug molecules.
Personal care: Extensively used in hair sprays and gels as a fixative to provide hold and shine without residue.
Food and beverage: Utilized as a clarifying agent in beer and wine production to remove polyphenols and improve clarity.
Industrial engineering: Employed in the manufacturing of membranes, specialized inks, and adhesive formulations due to its bonding strength.
Medical diagnostics: Serves as a stabilizer in diagnostic tests and a coating for medical devices to improve biocompatibility.