Aminomethyl Propanol (Aminomethyl Propanol) - Carbomer neutralizer; activates gel structure

INCI Name

Aminomethyl Propanol

Functions

1 Roles

Sustainability

4/10

What It Does

Aminomethyl Propanol (AMP) is a small-molecule amino alcohol synthesized from nitroethane and formaldehyde, offering a highly efficient alkaline neutralizer with a pKa around 9.7. Unlike inorganic bases such as sodium hydroxide, AMP imparts minimal ionic strength to formulations, which is particularly advantageous when neutralizing Carbomers and Acrylates Copolymers as it produces exceptionally clear, stable gels with excellent aesthetics. Formulators favor it over triethanolamine (TEA) due to its lower molecular weight, reduced risk of nitrosamine formation, and superior long-term stability in finished products.

Enhances formula performance

Contributes to product quality

Supports formulation goals

Improves user experience

Technical Properties

pH Range

10.5-11.5

Optimal working range

Ionic Charge

cationic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thickening

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

low

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

anionic polymers (Carbomers, acrylates copolymers)nonionic surfactantshumectantswater-soluble activespreservativesmost emollients

Avoid Combining

strong acidsoxidizing agentsheavy metal saltsaldehydescationic polymers

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

4/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

Petrochemical-derived; synthesized via condensation of nitroethane with formaldehyde followed by hydrogenation

Available Variants

3 forms available

95% Aqueous Solution

95% Solution

95% Aqueous Solution

Quick Reference

Full INCI Name: Aminomethyl Propanol
Common Name: Aminomethyl Propanol
Category: ph adjusters

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