Enhancing Functionality in Cosmetic & Personal Care Formulations Introducing Our N-Substituted Acrylamide-Based Polymers (INCI-Registered)

Looking to elevate formulation performance, stability, and sensory experience? Our INCI-registered N-substituted acrylamide polymers offer a powerful solution for next-generation cosmetic and personal care products.

These advanced polymers deliver a unique combination of multi-functionality and formulation flexibility, including:

• Amphiphilicity: Excellent compatibility with aqueous, alcoholic, and non-aqueous solvents for broad formulation adaptability
• Amide-Bond Durability: Outstanding thermal and hydrolytic stability, ideal for demanding formulation environments
• Thermo-Responsive Structures: Enable temperature-triggered sensory shifts and functional effects, enhancing user experience
• Self-Crosslinking Capability: Improves film formation and water resistance, perfect for makeup and sun care applications
• High Copolymerization Versatility: Compatible with various acrylic monomers for viscosity control, emulsion stability, and texture optimization

Comprehensive data on physical properties, safety, and functional performance is available. Whether you're developing innovative textures or seeking robust formulation stability, we invite you to contact us for more details and technical support.

Latest Developments in NIPAM (N-isopropylacrylamide) and Proposal for Advanced Functional Materials – August 2025

A review of 17 academic papers published in August 2025 reveals the following distribution of NIPAM-related applications:

• Nanogels, nanomotors, drug delivery, and bio-related uses (e.g., enzyme-driven nanomotors, synthetic polymer nanoparticles for disease treatment): approx. 24%
• Separation and adsorption using polymers/hydrogels (e.g., anticancer drugs, copper ions, proteins): approx. 35%
• Temperature-responsive materials for sensors, membranes, antifouling, and separation: approx. 24%
• Medical hydrogels for wound healing and pH-responsive materials: approx. 12%
• Other (e.g., synthesis methods, novel structures, water treatment): approx. 6%

These findings indicate that NIPAM is primarily applied in biomedical and biofunctional nanomaterials, with active research also underway in temperature-responsive sensors and membrane technologies.

Below, we introduce two representative studies and propose potential applications of NIPAM-based materials.

Study 1

Title: “Development of Synthetic Polymer Nanoparticles for Targeted Molecular Adsorption and Neutralization in Disease Treatment” Author: Hiroyuki Koide Journal: Journal of Japanese Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Vol. 36, No. 4, pp. 527–533, 2025

Application Overview This study explores the development of medical nanomaterials using synthetic polymer nanoparticles based on NIPAM. These particles selectively adsorb and neutralize target molecules (e.g., toxic peptides, histones) in blood and biological environments. Applications include cancer and sepsis treatment, with particular focus on localized tumor cooling enabled by temperature responsiveness.

NIPAM Functionality NIPAM exhibits a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of approximately 32 °C, transitioning from hydrophilic (swollen) to hydrophobic (collapsed) states. LCST can be tuned via monomer composition. Optimized nanoparticles respond to temperature changes, releasing melittin (bee venom) at 25 °C and retaining it at 37 °C. Release occurs within 20 seconds of cooling.

PEG modification extends blood circulation time by approximately 150-fold while maintaining neutralization capacity. The particles show affinity for multiple histone subtypes (Kd range: 250–880 nM), significantly improving survival rates in sepsis model animals.

Future Applications and Recommendations

• Temperature-responsive drug delivery systems for localized cancer cooling
• Long-circulating nanomaterials for toxin neutralization in sepsis
• Enhanced structural uniformity and biodegradability via monomer and crosslinker optimization

Study 2

Title: “Smart Nanogels as Enzyme-Driven Nanomotors for Navigating Viscous Physiological Barriers” Authors: David Esporrín-Ubieto et al. Journal: Advanced Functional Materials, 2025

Application Overview This study presents enzyme-driven nanomotors (NM) based on p-(NIPAM-co-itaconic acid) smart nanogels (NG), with urease enzymes immobilized on the surface. These nanomotors actively traverse viscous biological barriers (e.g., bladder urine, mucus, synovial fluid), offering a next-generation platform for drug delivery and diagnostics.

NIPAM Functionality The NGs exhibit LCST between 32–41 °C, with significant size reduction (e.g., 893 nm at 35 °C to 488 nm at 38 °C). They also respond to pH changes, with volume and surface charge varying across pH 5–10. At pH 5, particle size decreases from 490 nm (pH 7.4) to 379 nm. Enzyme activity is retained post-immobilization, and diffusion coefficients increase by 1.24–1.4× at urea concentrations of 50–100 mM. Confocal microscopy confirms high cellular uptake (up to 99%) and excellent biocompatibility.

Future Applications and Recommendations

• Urease-driven nanomotors for bladder cancer drug delivery
• Transport systems for drugs across mucus and other viscous biological fluids
• Smart materials responsive to redox conditions and blood composition using BAC crosslinkers
• Expanded enzyme and therapeutic molecule immobilization for clinical optimization

Strategic Proposal

NIPAM’s advanced temperature and pH responsiveness makes it highly suitable for nanogel and nanoparticle platforms targeting specific organs and disease states. Its ability to respond to physiological temperatures (~37 °C) and localized thermal changes (e.g., tumor cooling) enables on-demand drug release and active barrier penetration.

Recommended Development Focus Areas:

• Precise control of LCST and responsiveness via copolymer and crosslinker design
• Improved blood stability and biocompatibility through PEG modification
• Selective adsorption and active motion via enzyme/protein immobilization
• Structural uniformity and biodegradability for enhanced safety
• Mechanistic design for active penetration of complex biological barriers

These technologies hold promise for a wide range of applications, including drug delivery, localized cancer therapy, and infection/sepsis control. NIPAM-based nanomaterials are poised to become a cornerstone of next-generation biomedical material development.

Reference

• Esporrín‐Ubieto, David 他, "Smart Nanogels as Enzyme‐Driven Nanomotors for Navigating Viscous Physiological Barriers", Advanced Functional Materials, 2025, Wiley Online Library, e10203
• Zeb, Umar 他, "Targeted quercetin extraction from cherry and strawberry juices via chitosan-modified macroporous monolith", Journal of Molecular Structure, 2025, Elsevier, 143723
• Yawen, Tian 他, "One Dual Stimulus Response Molecular Imprinted Hydrogel for Specific Recognition and Enrichment of Doxorubicin", Journal of Separation Science, 48(8), 2025, Wiley Online Library, e70249
• 小出裕之, "標的分子を吸着・中和する合成高分子ナノ粒子を用いた疾患治療への挑戦", 日本血栓止血学会誌, 36(4), 2025, 一般社団法人 日本血栓止血学会, 527-533
• Yang, Lian 他, "Effect of Performance and Fouling Mechanisms of Thermo-Responsive Membranes on Treating Secondary Effluent Containing Added Sulfamethoxazole", Separations, 2025, MDPI
• Zhong, Qing 他, "A Mechanical Contraction‐Driven Hydrogel Dressing for pH Visualization and Tailored Acute/Chronic Wound Healing", Advanced Functional Materials, 2025, Wiley Online Library, e12807
• Khouzania, Nasim Salmani 他, "Synthesis of silica nanoparticles grafted with copolymer of nipam-acrylic acid for removal of methylene blue from aquatic solutions", 2025
• Tang, Qichen 他, "Double Response Composite Hydrogel With Large Reverse Bending Properties", Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2025, Wiley Online Library, e57816
• Shiva Samhitha, Saireddy, "Molecularly imprinted polymers synthesized on a rigid substrate as a solid phase coupled with sers for detection of prostate cancer biomarker.", 2025, Universidad de Concepción
• Hu, Zhenyu 他, "Thermo-driven “Molecular Wipers” for anti-protein adhesion of bioethanol immobilized fermentation", Chemical Engineering Journal, 2025, Elsevier, 167040
• Li, Zhikun 他, "Preparation of Sodium Alginate-Based Temperature-and Ph-Responsive Mof/Hydrogel Microspheres and Their Adsorption and Separation of Proteins", 2025
• Fan, Jiashen 他, "Tunable and Environmental-Adaptive Ionogel Sensors with High Adhesion and Broad-Range Thermal Responsiveness", 2025
• Tavagnacco, Letizia 他, "Thermoresponsive copolymer microgels synthesized via single-step precipitation polymerization: random or block structure?", arXiv preprint arXiv:2508.04246, 2025
• Yang, Lian 他, "Effect of the Composition of Pvdf-Nipam-Go Membrane for the Removal of Organic Contaminant and Anti-Fouling from Biofilter Effluent Under the Responsible Temperature", SSRN 5379261, 2025
• Gao, Yuan 他, "A novel fabrication method for gradient-structured PNIPAM-based hydrogels", Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 3068(1), 2025, IOP Publishing, 012105
• Fan, Jingyi 他, "Temperature-responsive AuNPs/poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel-based sensor for SERS detection of paraquat in fruit juices", Microchimica Acta, 192(8), 2025, Springer
• Rogić Miladinović, Zorana 他, "Efficient Copper Ion Removal from Wastewater Using Copolymeric Hydrogels Based on NIPAM, OEGMA, and Acids Synthesized via Gamma Radiation", ICARST-2025 Book of Abstracts, 2025, IAEA, 402

Global and Japanese Efforts Toward Reducing Plastic Waste Our Approach and Proposal – High-Performance Monomer NOAM (N-Octylacrylamide)

In recent years, the rapid increase in plastic waste has become a major global issue. According to an OECD survey, approximately 353 million tons of plastic waste were generated worldwide in 2019, and this figure is projected to exceed 1 billion tons by 2060—about three times higher. This problem is expected to intensify not only in developed countries but also in emerging economies as industrial growth and living standards rise.

Plastics are indispensable materials for ensuring safety in food and healthcare, as well as for improving performance in mobility and electronics. However, their environmental impact as waste is significant. Achieving a sustainable society requires addressing the global challenge of “how we use plastics and how we circulate them.”

Against this backdrop, the European Union strengthened regulations on single-use plastic products in 2019. Countries such as France and Germany have advanced bans on items like plastic bags and food containers. At the same time, chemical recycling technologies for resource circulation are rapidly evolving, with major global chemical companies increasing investments to reuse plastic waste as valuable resources.

In Japan, the Plastic Resource Circulation Act was enforced in 2022, promoting not only reduction and reuse but also the introduction of biomass-derived and recycled materials. Transitioning away from a society dependent on petroleum-based plastics toward a circular economy based on renewable resources and recycling has now become inevitable.

Our newly developed NOAM (N-Octylacrylamide) is a next-generation monomer that directly responds to this societal demand. Manufactured from biomass raw materials, NOAM reduces reliance on petroleum-derived feedstocks and contributes to lowering greenhouse gas emissions across the product lifecycle. Its Bio Renewable Carbon (BRC) ratio reaches approximately 72%, demonstrating excellent environmental performance for sustainable manufacturing. Moreover, NOAM not only reduces environmental burden but also overcomes the common challenge of “performance insufficiency” in conventional biomass materials, offering high functionality applicable to a wide range of uses.

Key Features of NOAM

• High Adhesion: Excellent adhesion to synthetic resins such as PE and PET, as well as to metals like copper and aluminum, and even glass substrates—enabling compatibility with diverse materials.

• Broad Compatibility: Outstanding miscibility with various monomers, making it easy to incorporate into existing formulations.

• Superior Heat Resistance: With a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 79 °C, it is suitable for applications requiring thermal stability.

• High Reactivity: Compared to conventional long-chain acrylates, NOAM exhibits better polymerization performance and has proven adaptability in UV-curable resins.

• High Bio-Renewable Ratio: With a BRC value of ~72%, NOAM sets a high benchmark as an environmentally sustainable material.

Potential Applications

Thanks to its unique properties, NOAM holds promise across multiple fields. These include industrial paints and coatings requiring durability and environmental compliance, adhesives and pressure-sensitive adhesives demanding both flexibility and strength, UV-curable resins requiring high curing performance, and even cosmetics, where safety and environmental compatibility are critical. In particular, in UV-curing applications, NOAM’s polymerization reactivity and thermal resistance position it as a strong candidate for the next generation of high-performance UV materials.

Significance and Future Outlook

For many years, biomass-derived materials have been viewed as insufficient in functionality. NOAM overcomes this limitation, delivering both environmental sustainability and advanced performance. In line with the global shift toward sustainable materials, NOAM offers a powerful solution for moving beyond petroleum dependency and realizing a true circular society.

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N-Substituted Acrylamides in Advanced Battery Electrolytes: Spotlight on N,N-Dimethylacrylamide (DMAA)

1. Key Findings from the Latest Research
2. Chemical Engineering Journal (2025): In-situ phase separation for ultrafast Li⁺ conduction

• Researchers reported a strategy using poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide) (PDMAA) domains formed during in-situ polymerization.
• These PDMAA-rich regions act as molecular scaffolds to regulate the distribution of plastic crystal succinonitrile (SN).
• Result: a continuous, interconnected Li⁺ transport channel is formed, enabling high ionic mobility while preserving mechanical integrity and interfacial stability.
• Conceptual highlight: The polar amide groups of DMAA coordinate with SN and electrolyte salts, lowering ion-pairing energy and supporting efficient charge transport.
• While the abstract does not disclose full numerical values, the work emphasizes "ultrafast Li⁺ conduction" and stable electrode interfaces, suggesting strong potential for solid-state or quasi-solid-state designs.

1. Ionics (2024): Nitrogen-containing gel electrolyte based on DMAA

• System: DMAA-derived polymer (PNDET) crosslinked with pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETEA).
• Reported properties:
• Ionic conductivity: up to 7.02 mS·cm⁻¹ at room temperature.
• Mechanical strength: 220 MPa tensile strength, outstanding for a polymer electrolyte.
• Electrochemical stability: oxidative stability window extended from 4.3 V → 4.5 V.
• Thermal/flame resistance: nitrogen-rich framework contributes to enhanced safety.
• Full-cell validation: Ah-scale NCM811/graphite pouch cells showed 93.5% capacity retention after 600 cycles at 60 °C.
• This is a rare case where DMAA-based polymers are demonstrated at practical device scale, bridging the gap between laboratory synthesis and commercial relevance.

2. Functional Interpretation of DMAA

From both studies, we can extract a functional profile of DMAA in battery applications:

1. High polarity amide groups
• Facilitate Li-salt dissociation and solvation.
• Promote continuous Li⁺ transport networks when combined with solvents or plastic crystals.
2. Polymerization versatility
• DMAA can undergo homopolymerization or copolymerization with multifunctional acrylates (e.g., PETEA).
• Enables precise tuning of crosslink density, Tg, and mechanical strength.
3. Electronic structure
• The nitrogen-containing amide lowers the HOMO energy, extending the oxidative stability up to ~4.5 V.
• Compatible with Ni-rich layered cathodes (e.g., NCM811).
4. Thermal and safety benefits
• Nitrogen backbone contributes to flame retardancy and thermal robustness, crucial for safety in high-energy cells.

3. Next Development Targets

Based on the two papers, the next steps for DMAA and related N-substituted acrylamides are:

• Ionic conductivity: consistently achieving ≥ 5–7 mS·cm⁻¹ at 25 °C across different formulations.
• Electrochemical window: pushing stability beyond 4.5 V, enabling safe use with >4.5 V cathodes.
• Mechanical optimization: balancing rigidity (for dendrite suppression) and elasticity (for electrode interface adhesion).
• High-temperature cycling: demonstrating ≥ 90% capacity retention over 500+ cycles at 60 °C in pouch-cell configurations.
• Processability: exploring in-situ polymerization with phase separation (PIPS) to create stable, percolating Li⁺ channels without sacrificing manufacturability.

4. Promotional Perspective: The Power of N-Substituted Acrylamides

At KJ Chemicals, we recognize the transformative role of DMAA and its analogues—such as N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) and N,N-dimethylaminopropyl acrylamide (DMAPAA)—in next-generation battery electrolytes.

• DMAA brings high polarity and oxidative stability.
• NIPAM offers thermo-responsive solubility and network flexibility.
• DMAPAA contributes cationic charge, improving interfacial compatibility and ionic transport.

By tailoring these monomers in copolymer or hybrid architectures, we can deliver polymeric electrolytes with:

• mS·cm⁻¹ ionic conductivity
• >4.5 V stability windows
• enhanced flame retardancy
• durable cycling at elevated temperatures

This portfolio allows us to provide custom-designed resins for solid-state, gel, or hybrid electrolyte systems, bridging the gap between academic breakthroughs and industrial-scale implementation.

5. Conclusion

The latest reports from CEJ (2025) and Ionics (2024) demonstrate that DMAA is no longer just a polymer chemistry building block—it is a key enabler for high-energy, high-safety batteries. With its unique ability to balance conductivity, stability, and mechanical integrity, DMAA and its N-substituted family open the door to commercially viable polymer electrolytes.

At KJ Chemicals, we are actively expanding this chemistry to support battery developers worldwide. Let’s collaborate to turn these promising findings into industrial solutions.

📚 References

L. Wan, H. Nie et al., Chemical Engineering Journal, Vol. 513, 162810 (2025).

J. Wang, M. Bai et al., Ionics, Vol. 31, 1611–1621 (2024).

Benefits of DAAM/ADH Crosslinking

Diacetone acrylamide (DAAM) and adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH) crosslinking, known as keto-hydrazide crosslinking, offers several benefits compared to other crosslinking systems:

1. Ambient Temperature Crosslinking: DAAM/ADH crosslinking occurs at ambient temperatures, eliminating the need for high-temperature curing processes
2. Enhanced Durability: The resulting polymer network exhibits superior mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, and durability
3. Moisture and Solvent Resistance: This system enhances moisture and solvent resistance, making it ideal for coatings and adhesives
4. Formaldehyde-Free: Unlike melamine-based systems, DAAM/ADH is formaldehyde-free, reducing health and safety concerns
5. In-Can Stability: The emulsions remain stable during storage and transport, preventing premature crosslinking

Comparison to Other Crosslinking Systems

• Melamine-Formaldehyde: Requires high-temperature curing and releases formaldehyde, posing health risks
• Diacrylates: Can cause premature crosslinking within emulsion particles, leading to weaker films
• Epoxy Systems: Often require complex curing agents and processes, and may not offer the same level of moisture resistance

Overall, DAAM/ADH crosslinking provides a safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional crosslinking systems.

Applications

1. Architectural Coatings: DAAM/ADH crosslinking is used in waterborne latex paints, providing enhanced durability, moisture resistance, and environmental safety. For instance, the patent US9115265B2 discusses ambient self-crosslinkable latex compositions for architectural coatings
2. Industrial Coatings: These crosslinking agents are also employed in industrial coatings to improve chemical resistance and mechanical properties. The patent US20160186000A1 highlights the use of DAAM and methacrylamide (MAM) in latex compositions for such applications
3. Adhesives: DAAM/ADH crosslinking is utilized in adhesive formulations to enhance bond strength and resistance to environmental factors. The patent WO2018063095A1 mentions the effectiveness of ADH in crosslinking polyacrylate binders

4. Drilling Fluids

In drilling fluids, DAAM/ADH crosslinking can enhance the stability and performance of water-based drilling muds. The crosslinked polymers improve the rheological properties, providing better control over fluid loss and enhancing the overall efficiency of the drilling process

5. Inks

DAAM/ADH crosslinking is also used in the formulation of printing inks. The crosslinked polymers offer improved adhesion, durability, and resistance to solvents and abrasion. This makes them suitable for high-quality printing on various substrates

6. Other Applications

Textiles: Used in textile coatings to improve durability and resistance to washing and abrasion

Paper Treatment: Enhances the strength and water resistance of paper products

Lubricating Oils: Improves the performance and stability of lubricating oils

Polishes and Waxes: Provides enhanced durability and resistance to wear

DMAPAA-Q: The Next-Generation Cationic Acrylamide Monomer for High-Performance Applications

Cationic resins play a critical role in industries ranging from paper manufacturing and textile finishing to coatings, personal care, and water treatment.
However, conventional cationic monomers such as MAPTAC, DADMAC, and DMAEA-Q often present challenges—particularly in terms of hydrolysis resistance, heat stability, and pH tolerance.

To address these limitations, we are proud to introduce DMAPAA-Q (N,N-Dimethylaminopropyl Acrylamide Methyl Chloride Quaternary Salt)—our next-generation cationic acrylamide monomer engineered for exceptional durability, stability, and performance.

Key Advantages of DMAPAA-Q

• 🧪 Outstanding Hydrolysis Resistance
  Thanks to its amide bond structure, DMAPAA-Q maintains stable cationic functionality over extended storage and use, even in demanding environments.
• 🔥 High Heat Resistance
  Performs reliably under high-temperature processing without degradation or yellowing.
• ⚖️ Wide pH Stability
  Exceptional chemical durability under both acidic and alkaline conditions, offering greater formulation flexibility.
• ✨ Low Impurity Levels
  Reduced color, odor, and side reaction risks—critical for sensitive applications like cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
• 💧 Excellent Water Solubility & Copolymer Compatibility
  Compatible with a wide range of acrylic monomers, enabling tailored performance for specific end uses.

Applications Across Multiple Industries

📄 Paper Manufacturing

• Improves dry strength, pitch control, and retention of functional additives.
• Enhances efficiency by reducing chemical loss during paper processing.

🧵 Textile Finishing

• Adds moisture absorption, antistatic properties, and softness.
• High affinity for polar substrates like nylon and polyester.

🎨 Inks & Coatings

• Functions as a pigment dispersion stabilizer and waterborne ink binder.
• Improves substrate adhesion, water resistance, and drying speed.

💇 Personal Care

• Ideal as a conditioning polymer and antistatic agent in hair care.
• Provides excellent adsorption, smooth feel, and water resistance.

💧 Water Treatment

• Effective organic flocculant for suspended solids removal.
• High molecular weight types are also applicable for sludge dewatering.

Why DMAPAA-Q is Different

Compared to conventional cationic monomers:

• It is more resistant to hydrolysis than MAPTAC/METAC.
• It withstands higher processing temperatures than DADMAC.
• It maintains stability across pH changes better than DMAEA-Q.

These properties translate into longer product life, greater formulation freedom, and broader application potential—particularly in high-value markets like personal care and medical products.

What's green solvents?

🌟 Introducing KJCMPA-100 🌟
Your next-generation solvent solution! 💡
Say goodbye to NMP, DMF, and 2P. KJCMPA-100 dissolves the nearly impossible—like polyimide and polyamide-imide—with high safety and superior amphiphilic performance.

🧪 Key Features:
✅ Highly-amphiphilic amide solvent
✅ Excellent dissolving power for PA, PI, PAI, PU
✅ Safe alternative – No reproductive toxicity (OECD 414)
✅ Works with polar & non-polar substances
✅ Low contact angle ➤ great wettability

🛠 Applications:
🔁 NMP / DMF / 2P Replacement
🧵 Polymerization (PA, PI, PAI, PU, PUD)
🖨 Inkjet inks
🎨 Coatings
🔗 Adhesives
🧼 Cleaners

🌿 For safer & more versatile formulations, choose KJCMPA-100.
Let’s make chemical handling smarter and safer together.