PVP K90 is the highest-viscosity grade in the standard povidone K-series, valued for strong film-forming power and effective thickening at low use levels. It serves two distinct buyer groups — pharmaceutical formulators building sustained-release systems, and cosmetic formulators building strong-hold hair styling and stabilized emulsion products.
Product · PVP K-Series
PVP K90 (Povidone K90) — High-Viscosity Povidone Grade
CAS: 9003-39-8Grade: K90
Technical Specifications
| K-value (Fikentscher) | 85.0 – 95.5 |
|---|---|
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | 3.0 – 5.0 |
| Moisture content | ≤ 5.0% |
| Molecular weight | ≈ 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 Da |
| Peroxide (as H₂O₂) | ≤ 400 ppm |
| Typical use concentration | 1 – 3% (w/w) |
| CAS Number | 9003-39-8 |
K-value (Fikentscher)
85.0 – 95.5
pH (1% aqueous solution)
3.0 – 5.0
Moisture content
≤ 5.0%
Molecular weight
≈ 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 Da
Peroxide (as H₂O₂)
≤ 400 ppm
Typical use concentration
1 – 3% (w/w)
CAS Number
9003-39-8
Key Applications
Sustained-Release Formulations
Strong film-forming and matrix-building properties for sustained-release tablets and implants — slower, controlled drug release.
Hair Styling & Emulsion Stabilization
Firm hold film-former for gels, sprays, and pomades; stabilizer for lotions, foundations, and sunscreens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between PVP K90 and PVP K30?
K90 has a substantially higher molecular weight (approximately 1,000,000–1,500,000 Da vs. K30's 45,000–58,000 Da), giving it much higher viscosity and film strength at the same concentration. K30 is typically chosen for tablet binding and mid-range dispersing tasks, while K90 is chosen where strong hold, sustained release, or high-viscosity thickening is the priority — such as strong-hold hair styling products or sustained-release pharmaceutical matrices.
Is PVP K90 suitable for cosmetic formulations?
Yes. K90 is a standard ingredient in strong-hold hair styling gels, sprays, and pomades, and is also used as a stabilizer in lotions, foundations, and sunscreens.
Which pharmacopoeia standards does your PVP K90 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.