Brenntag and Seneca Polytechnic will investigate D5 silicone alternatives

Brenntag Beauty & Personal Care has partnered with Seneca Polytechnic for a research and application project, to evaluate and identify D5 silicone alternatives. This follows the expected European Union ban on D5 silicone additives use in personal care products as of June 2027. The research project is made possible through an Applied Research and Development grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

Replacement of D5 silicone poses a significant challenge to formulators due to its unique properties in end consumer applications. The project aims to evaluate the physicochemical properties of various D5 alternatives in key end applications, with a goal to identify how different options work across these applications, resulting in a responsive guide and alternative roadmap for customers. 

Maia Navarrete, Senior Director Personal Care Americas at Brenntag Specialties, commented: “As part of our expanding innovation and application program, this fundamental research project with Seneca Polytechnic will support the growth of our customer base by offering safe and sustainable alternatives to D5 silicone, supporting their compliance needs in key end applications like antiperspirant and hair conditioners. Customers will benefit from valuable formulation support to guide them on different offset options based on their end applications.” 

“Market forces drive innovation, and this project provides Seneca Polytechnic students with an opportunity to participate in innovative research and exposure to the needs of industry in adapting to market changes,” said Ben Rogers, Dean of Research, Seneca Polytechnic. “The Seneca Centre for Innovation in Life Sciences was established to support industry in meeting evolving market demands while allowing students to apply their technical expertise to solving real-world challenges. This project exemplifies the value SCILS delivers.” 

D5 silicone additives provide the smooth or silky feel in personal care products such as deodorants, foundations, and lipsticks. In sunscreen, they offer a non-greasy application. However, these chemcials are found to pose health and environmental concerns.