Synthesis and Characterization of Active Biocarbon Material for Use in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Abstract

Consumer’s preference towards organic material enriched nature based green products in the cosmetics and personal care industry have intensified over the years. This paper shares the synthesis and characterization of an active organic biocarbon material derived from carbonized powdered coconut shell by bicarbonate cured activation for use in charcoal-based cosmetic and personal care products. The optimum conditions for activation was observed at 800 °C, run for 180 min, with a bicarbonate impregnation ratio of 1:3. Experimental design followed Box-Behnken approach. The increase in iodine (757.30 mg/g) and methylene blue number (111.00 mg/g) are indicative of a highly porous biocarbon material that reflects its excellent adsorption capability. Suitability of the biocarbon material for application in charcoal-based cosmetic formulation mixture was supported through proximate, texture, and color analysis. Overall material characteristics are beneficial for effective adsorbent and exfoliant functions in cleansing, detoxifying, and scrubbing.