PVP has excellent water solubility, high hygroscopicity, film-forming, adhesion and dispersibility, and can be widely used in various fields. Its safety for human health and environmental compatibility further expand its application in pharmaceuticals and food additives.
1. Pharmaceutical Industry
PVP plays a variety of roles in the pharmaceutical industry. It is the base of the preservative povidone iodine, stabilizes suspensions and emulsions, can be used as a binder for tablets and capsules, and is also a component of ointment and cream bases. In addition, it can enhance the blood compatibility of artificial kidney hollow fibers.
2. Food Additives
As a stabilizer, binder and dispersant, PVP is an indispensable part of vitamin and mineral supplements. Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) is a cross-linked variant that can be used as a clarifier in beer and wine and can reduce the astringency in tea beverages. Unlike PVP, PVPP is insoluble in water.
