K12, K15, and K17 are the lowest-viscosity grades in the povidone K-series. They share a common role — solubilizer, crystallization inhibitor, and stabilizer — and are typically selected from within this group based on the specific viscosity and processing requirements of a formulation, making them easiest to evaluate together.
Product · PVP K-Series
PVP K12, K15 & K17 — Low Molecular Weight Povidone Grades
CAS: 9003-39-8Grades: K12 / K15 / K17
Technical Specifications — Grade Comparison
| Parameter | K12 | K15 | K17 |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-value (Fikentscher) | 10.2 – 13.8 | 12.75 – 17.25 | 15.30 – 18.36 |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | 3.0 – 5.0 | 3.0 – 5.0 | 3.0 – 5.0 |
| Moisture content | ≤ 5.0% | ≤ 5.0% | ≤ 5.0% |
| Molecular weight | ≈ 2,000 – 3,000 Da | ≈ 8,000 – 10,000 Da | ≈ 10,000 – 15,000 Da |
| Peroxide (as H₂O₂) | ≤ 400 ppm | ≤ 400 ppm | ≤ 400 ppm |
| CAS Number | 9003-39-8 | 9003-39-8 | 9003-39-8 |
K12
K-value (Fikentscher): 10.2 – 13.8
pH (1% aqueous solution): 3.0 – 5.0
Moisture content: ≤ 5.0%
Molecular weight: ≈ 2,000 – 3,000 Da
Peroxide (as H₂O₂): ≤ 400 ppm
CAS Number: 9003-39-8
K15
K-value (Fikentscher): 12.75 – 17.25
pH (1% aqueous solution): 3.0 – 5.0
Moisture content: ≤ 5.0%
Molecular weight: ≈ 8,000 – 10,000 Da
Peroxide (as H₂O₂): ≤ 400 ppm
CAS Number: 9003-39-8
K17
K-value (Fikentscher): 15.30 – 18.36
pH (1% aqueous solution): 3.0 – 5.0
Moisture content: ≤ 5.0%
Molecular weight: ≈ 10,000 – 15,000 Da
Peroxide (as H₂O₂): ≤ 400 ppm
CAS Number: 9003-39-8
Key Applications
Injectable & Ophthalmic
Solubilizers, crystallization inhibitors, and stabilizers for injectables, protein stabilization, and eye-drop permeability.
Beverage Clarification
K15 removes haze-forming polyphenols and stabilizes color/clarity in beer and wine processing.
Nanoparticle Research
K12/K15 as polymer stabilizers in nanoparticle synthesis — predictable solubility, low viscosity impact.
Cosmetic Formulations
K17 as solubility enhancer, light binder, and film former where fine viscosity control matters.
Choosing Between K12, K15, and K17
All three grades serve similar functional roles; the choice typically comes down to the specific viscosity profile and processing behavior your formulation needs. K12 has the lowest molecular weight and is often preferred for applications needing minimal viscosity impact. K17 sits at the upper end of this group, offering slightly improved binding and film-forming behavior while still processing easily. If you're unsure which grade fits your formulation, share your target application and we can recommend a starting point for trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between K12, K15, and K17?
All three are low molecular weight povidone grades used primarily as solubilizers, crystallization inhibitors, and stabilizers. The difference is degree — K12 has the lowest molecular weight and viscosity impact, K17 the highest within this group, with K15 in between. Selection depends on your formulation's specific viscosity and processing requirements.
Is PVP K15 used in food and beverage applications?
Yes, PVP K15 is commonly used as a clarifying agent in beer and wine production to remove haze-forming compounds and stabilize appearance.
Which pharmacopoeia standards do these grades comply with?
Manufactured to comply with USP/NF, EP, JP, and BP monograph requirements, with batch documentation available for regulatory filings.
Do you provide certificates of analysis for each batch?
Yes, a batch-specific COA is provided with every shipment, along with ISO9001/ISO14001 certification and DMF/CEP references where applicable.