ACRYLATES COPOLYMER

Acrylates copolymer is made by combining acrylic acid and methacrylic acid along with one of their esters or salts. It can be in white powder or beads form and is one of the most commonly produced microplastics. Microplastics or microbeads are tiny, solid particles that are added to cosmetic and skin care products because of their smoothening and exfoliating properties.

Acrylates copolymer is a film-forming agent that is used in cosmetic and skin care products. It forms a barrier on the skin and results in a very soft and smooth after feel. Further, acrylates copolymer adds water resistance or waterproof quality to formulations.

Acrylic copolymers are used in surface cleaner detergents to improve cleaning performance by acting as a chelating, dispersing, and anti-redeposition agent. They bind to metal ions like calcium and magnesium, which prevents them from interfering with the detergent’s cleaning action in hard water, and helps suspend soil particles and prevent them from redepositing on surfaces. These copolymers also enhance the stability and efficacy of detergent formulations.  

It poses a safety hazard to the environment because of having microplastics.