Definition
cosurfactant
noun
- A substance that works alongside a primary surfactant to enhance the stability, solubility, or effectiveness of a solution or emulsion.
Usage: technical; chemistry; commonly used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations
Examples
- The formulation included a cosurfactant to improve the stability of the oil-in-water emulsion.
- Cosurfactants are often added to microemulsion systems to reduce interfacial tension.
- In cosmetic products, a cosurfactant helps maintain the consistency and shelf life of the preparation.
- The pharmaceutical company selected a cosurfactant that would enhance drug solubility without irritating the skin.
- Alcohols and polyols are commonly used as cosurfactants in detergent formulations.