A Hydrophobically modified Alkali Soluble acrylic polymer Emulsion (HASE) with high aqueous thickening and stabilizing efficiency. When neutralized to a pH above 7 by adding alkalis, PRIMAL™ HT-300-ESP thickens quickly. The immediate effect on viscosity and easy incorporation of PRIMAL™ HT-300-ESP into alkaline cleaner formulations offer savings in valuable production time, especially in comparison to carbomer or cellulosic thickeners, requiring predissolution and elimination of lumps.