Polyvinylcaprolactam / PNVCL / 2H-Azepin-2-one, 1-ethenylhexahydro-, homopolymer

Luviskol PLUS Alternative | CAS 25189-83-7

Product Introduction

Polyvinylcaprolactam, also known as PNVCL or PVCL, is a nonionic water-soluble and alcohol-soluble polymer produced by the polymerization of N-vinylcaprolactam. Its full chemical name is 2H-Azepin-2-one, 1-ethenylhexahydro-, homopolymer, and its CAS number is 25189-83-7. The molecular formula is (C₈H₁₃NO)n.

This product is widely recognized as a high-quality Luviskol PLUS alternative for use in personal care, hair styling, coatings, adhesives, and pharmaceutical applications. It forms clear, glossy, non-tacky films with excellent adhesion, good humidity resistance, and favorable solubility in water and polar organic solvents.

Because PNVCL is nonionic, it is highly compatible with many cosmetic and industrial formulation ingredients, including anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and nonionic surfactants and polymers.

Common names and synonyms:
Polyvinylcaprolactam, PNVCL, PVCL, Poly(N-vinylcaprolactam), N-Vinylcaprolactam homopolymer, 1-Ethenylhexahydro-2H-azepin-2-one homopolymer, Luviskol PLUS alternative, CAS 25189-83-7.

Physical and Chemical Specification

Note: Specifications may be adjusted for specific grades. Current batch values are provided in the Certificate of Analysis (COA).

Product Functions

Polyvinylcaprolactam PNVCL CAS 25189-83-7 delivers several important functions in formulations:

• Film formation: Produces clear, hard yet flexible films with good hold and excellent adhesion to skin, hair and various substrates.
• Humidity resistance: Helps formulations maintain performance even in high-humidity conditions.
• Binding and adhesion: Acts as a binder for powders, pigments, granules and coatings.
• Protective colloid and dispersant: Stabilizes emulsions, suspensions and pigment dispersions.
• Rheology modification: Contributes to viscosity, body and texture in gels, lotions and coating formulations.
• Nonionic compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic, pharmaceutical and industrial raw materials.
• Solubility in water and alcohol: Allows flexible formulation in aqueous, hydroalcoholic and solvent-based systems.
• Low color and low odor: Suitable for applications requiring high clarity and aesthetic quality.

Application Areas

PNVCL is used as a dependable Luviskol PLUS alternative in the following applications:

1. Personal Care and Cosmetics

• Hair styling sprays, gels, mousses, waxes and setting lotions
• Hair mists and volumizing products
• Mascaras, eyeliners and eyebrow products
• Skin care films and cosmetic masks
• Sunscreens and water-resistant formulations

2. Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical

• Tablet binder and granulation aid
• Film coating polymer for tablets and capsules
• Controlled-release matrix formulations where applicable
• Protective colloid for active ingredients

3. Adhesives and Coatings

• Water-based and alcohol-based adhesives
• Remoistenable adhesives
• Barrier coatings and heat-seal coatings
• Protective coatings for industrial applications

4. Printing Inks and Paper

• Pigment dispersant and stabilizer
• Paper coating binder
• Ink film former and adhesion promoter

5. Textiles and Industrial Auxiliaries

• Textile sizing and finishing agent
• Protective colloid in emulsion polymerization
• Industrial dispersing and stabilizing agent
• Specialty water-based formulations

Manufacturing Process

Polyvinylcaprolactam PNVCL CAS 25189-83-7 is typically manufactured by free-radical polymerization of purified N-vinylcaprolactam monomer.

Typical production steps:

1. Monomer purification: High-purity N-vinylcaprolactam is prepared or purified to reduce impurities.
2. Polymerization: The monomer is polymerized in water, ethanol or a mixed solvent system using free-radical initiators under controlled temperature and nitrogen atmosphere.
3. Molecular weight control: Reaction time, initiator type/concentration and temperature are adjusted to achieve the desired K-value and molecular weight distribution.
4. Purification: The polymer solution is purified to remove residual monomer and low-molecular-weight fractions, often by precipitation or washing.
5. Drying and milling: The purified polymer is dried and milled into a fine powder, or diluted to the specified solid content for solution grades.
6. Quality testing and packaging: Each batch is tested for appearance, solid content, viscosity, pH, residual monomer, moisture, ash and other parameters before release.

Why Choose Us

• Specialized expertise in vinylcaprolactam and vinylpyrrolidone-based polymer chemistry.
• Consistent batch-to-batch quality with strict manufacturing and quality control processes.
• Customizable grades: Adjustable K-value, molecular weight, solid content, powder or solution form.
• Luviskol PLUS alternative performance with competitive pricing and reliable supply.
• Flexible packaging options including 25 kg drums, 20 kg bags, or custom packaging.
• Full documentation support: COA, SDS, TDS, and regulatory documentation available.
• Samples available for evaluation and formulation development.
• Global shipping and dependable logistics for customers worldwide.
• Technical support with formulation guidance and application recommendations.

FAQ

1. What is Polyvinylcaprolactam PNVCL CAS 25189-83-7?

Polyvinylcaprolactam, also called PNVCL or PVCL, is a nonionic polymer formed from N-vinylcaprolactam. Its chemical name is 2H-Azepin-2-one, 1-ethenylhexahydro-, homopolymer, CAS number 25189-83-7.

2. Is this product the same as Luviskol PLUS?

It is a high-performance alternative with the same INCI name and chemistry. We recommend conducting a formulation evaluation to confirm equivalence for your specific application.

3. What is the solubility of PNVCL?

Polyvinylcaprolactam is soluble in water, ethanol, isopropanol and polar solvents. It is generally insoluble in non-polar hydrocarbons.

4. What is the shelf life and recommended storage?

When stored in sealed original packaging in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, the product is stable for at least 24 months.

5. Can I get a sample?

Yes, samples are available for evaluation. Contact us with your application requirements and target specifications.

6. What is the difference between PVP and PNVCL?

PVP is polyvinylpyrrolidone, while PNVCL is polyvinylcaprolactam. PNVCL has a larger caprolactam ring, which gives different film flexibility, water resistance, and compatibility properties, making it especially useful in hair styling and humidity-resistant formulations.

7. What packaging options are available?

Standard packaging includes 25 kg fiber drums, 20 kg bags, or other customized packaging depending on order volume and product grade.

8. Can PNVCL be used in cosmetics?

Yes, it is widely used in hair styling products, skin care, color cosmetics, and other personal care formulations.

9. What K-value or molecular weight do I need?

The recommended grade depends on your application. Hair styling products often use medium-K grades, while coatings and binders may require higher molecular weight. Please contact us for technical guidance.

10. Is Polyvinylcaprolactam nonionic?

Yes, PNVCL is a nonionic polymer, which gives it broad compatibility with many formulation ingredients.