How to Use Starphere T5-BL34 in Your Formulations
Understanding Starphere T5-BL34
Starphere T5-BL34 is a simple yet powerful tool for making your oral care products stand out. Think of the little colored specks you see in some popular toothpastes—that’s exactly what these are designed for. These are tiny, vibrant blue spheres made primarily from corn starch, making them natural and biodegradable. Their purpose is visual and sensory: they make a product look more appealing and provide a fun, gentle bursting sensation when used.
For the technical formulator, Starphere T5-BL34 is a multi-sensory delivery system composed of a starch and cellulose matrix. With a particle size of 600–850 μm, these beads are large enough to be clearly visible in a gel or paste but small enough to feel comfortable and non-abrasive. They are engineered to maintain their structure in the formula and then break apart easily with the mechanical action of a toothbrush.
Formulation Tips
Usage Rate: Start with 0.5% to 3% depending on the visual density you want. Use less for a subtle speckled look and more for a bold, color-packed effect.
When to Add: Always add Starphere beads during the cool-down phase once your product is below 40°C (104°F). Stir gently to avoid breaking the beads prematurely.
Suspension Is Key: Since these are solid particles, ensure your base has sufficient viscosity to keep them evenly suspended. Reliable thickeners include xanthan gum, carbomers, and cellulose gums for gel or paste structures.
Mixing Guidance: Use low shear. Fold or gently stir the beads in at the end of processing. Avoid high-shear mixing that can fracture the beads before use.
System Compatibility: Works well in typical toothpaste and gel systems with humectants (e.g., glycerin, sorbitol), surfactants, flavors, and colorants. Validate suspension stability over shelf life.
Key Performance Benefits
- Striking Visual Appeal: Bright blue color adds an eye-catching element to toothpaste, gels, and cleansers, signaling freshness and efficacy.
- Designed for Oral Care: Soft structure breaks down easily upon brushing—no gritty or unpleasant residue.
- Biodegradable & Natural Base: Corn-starch matrix offers an eco-friendly alternative to plastic microbeads.
- Uniform Particle Size: Controlled 600–850 μm range ensures consistent appearance and experience.
- Enhanced Consumer Experience: Delivers a satisfying visual and sensory cue that makes brushing more engaging.