PVP K120 is the highest molecular weight grade in the standard povidone K-series, positioned primarily for cosmetic and industrial applications rather than pharmaceutical dosage forms. Its very high viscosity delivers stiff, strong hold and fast viscosity build at low use levels.
Product · PVP K-Series
PVP K120 — Ultra-High Viscosity Povidone Grade
CAS: 9003-39-8Grade: K120
Technical Specifications
| K-value (Fikentscher) | 110 – 125 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | ≈ 1,600,000 – 2,000,000 Da |
| Moisture content | ≤ 5.0% |
| Typical use level | 0.25 – 3.0% (solids) |
| CAS Number | 9003-39-8 |
K-value (Fikentscher)
110 – 125
Molecular weight
≈ 1,600,000 – 2,000,000 Da
Moisture content
≤ 5.0%
Typical use level
0.25 – 3.0% (solids)
CAS Number
9003-39-8
Grade specification note
K120 is primarily supplied as an industrial and cosmetic-grade material. Unlike K12–K90, it is not a standard pharmacopeial (USP/EP/JP) grade — if your application requires pharmacopeial compliance, K90 is typically the appropriate high-viscosity alternative.
Key Applications
Stiff-Hold Hair Styling
Strong, stiff hold for mousses, gels, styling lotions and creams, colorants, and novelty styling products.
Suspending & Dispersing Agent
Suspending, dispersing, and emulsifying agent in paint, coating, adhesive, ink, and textile dyeing applications.
Foam Stabilization
Stabilizes foams, emulsions, dispersions, and suspensions in select formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does PVP K120 differ from K90?
K120 has a higher molecular weight and K-value than K90, giving it even stiffer hold and faster viscosity build in hair styling formulations. Unlike K90, which is available in pharmacopeial (USP/EP/JP) grade for pharmaceutical use, K120 is typically supplied as an industrial/cosmetic-grade material.
Is PVP K120 suitable for pharmaceutical formulations?
K120 is primarily an industrial and cosmetic-grade material rather than a standard pharmacopeial grade. For pharmaceutical applications requiring high viscosity, PVP K90 is typically the appropriate choice — let us know your regulatory requirements and we can confirm the right grade.
What hair care products commonly use PVP K120?
Mousses, gels, styling lotions and creams, hair colorants, and novelty styling products where a stiff, strong hold is the target performance.
Do you provide certificates of analysis for each batch?
Yes, a batch-specific COA is provided with every shipment, along with ISO9001/ISO14001 certification.