CMIT/MIT 14% (Isothiazolinone)
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Methyl Isothiazolinone and Methyl Chloro Isothiazolinone, Kathon CG Substitute
Recommended use level: 0.005–0.01% of supplied product (14% concentrate) on total formula weight, equal to approx. 7–14 ppm active. Do not exceed 15 ppm active (≈0.0107% of supplied product). Confirm the final level by challenge testing your finished formulation.
It is a broad-spectrum preservative for rinse-off personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, liquid soaps, body washes, and shower gels. It also sees use in liquid laundry detergents, all-purpose cleaners, floor and furniture polishes & waxes, automotive washes, polishes & waxes, air fresheners, moist sponges, and towelettes.
It is an outstanding antimicrobial agent that is effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeast, and mold. The active ingredients in Kathon CG are two isothiazolinones used in combination: methylisothiazolinone (C4H5NOS) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (C4H4ClNOS). These active ingredients are formulated with inert salts in an aqueous solution.
Due to its broad-spectrum activity, low toxicity at recommended use levels, and excellent chemical compatibility, it provides formulators with an economical alternative to other commercial preservatives. It is effective at low concentrations at pH 2–8 (usable up to pH 9) and is compatible with anionic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants and emulsifiers. Add during cool-down below 40°C; avoid amines, sulphites and other reducing agents. It does not impart color or odor to products, is not bioaccumulating, and is rapidly biodegradable.
Regulatory note: For rinse-off products only. Not permitted in leave-on cosmetics in the EU (max 0.0015% active in rinse-off cosmetics). CMIT/MIT is a skin sensitiser; mixtures containing ≥15 ppm active require H317 labelling under EU CLP. Please verify the requirements for your target market.