Dimethicone/bis-isobutyl PPG-20 crosspolymer is a chemical compound, silicone elastomer with characteristics of high heat resistance and elasticity adaptable to both high and low temperatures, consisting of crosslinked dimethicone copolymers with a bifunctional agent. It is produced by hydroxylation by adding silicon hydride bonds with a catalyst, usually platinum. Cross-linked polymer containing dimeticone, isobutyl and PPG-20. PPG is an acronym for Polypropylene glycol..

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Dimethicone. It is a type of silicone oil with two methyl groups attached to the silicone atom. It is widely used in cosmetics for its lubricating properties and ability to form a barrier on the skin.
• Bis-isobutyl PPG-20. Refers to a polymer of polypropylene glycol (PPG) where the number '20' indicates the average number of repeating units of propylene glycol in the molecule. "Bis-isobutyl" indicates that two isobutyl groups are attached to the PPG molecule.
• Crosspolymer. This term indicates that the dimethicone and bis-isobutyl PPG-20 have been chemically bonded into a three-dimensional network. This is typically achieved through a process called cross-linking, which involves the use of a cross-linking agent capable of forming covalent bonds between the different polymer chains.

The synthesis process takes place in two steps:

• Production of dimethicone and bis-isobutyl PPG-20. The first step involves the production of the basic polymers, dimethicone (a type of silicone oil) and bis-isobutyl PPG-20 (a type of polypropylene glycol).
• Cross-linking. Dimethicone and bis-isobutyl PPG-20 are dipped and cross-linked to form a three-dimensional network. This occurs through a process called hydrosilylation, in which a catalyst is used to promote the addition of Si-H bonds through C=C double bonds.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss. Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

Viscosity Enhancing Agent - non acqueous. Since viscosity is important for increasing the chemical and physical stability of the product, Viscosity Enhancing Agent non acqueous is an important dosage factor in gels, suspensions, emulsions, solutions. Increasing viscosity makes formulations less sedimentary and more homogeneously thickened.

Safety 

Dimethicone is considered a safe component and impurities, according to the most up-to-date data, are of no health concern.