Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)

Product Introduction: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)

Overview
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a versatile, non-ionic cellulose ether derived from natural polymer cellulose. It is widely used in various industries, including construction, pharmaceuticals, food, and personal care, due to its excellent thickening, water retention, film-forming, and adhesive properties. HPMC is a white to off-white powder that dissolves in water to form a clear or slightly turbid solution, making it an essential additive in many applications.

Key Features and Benefits

1. Water Retention:
   HPMC significantly improves water retention in construction materials, such as cement-based mortars and plasters, ensuring proper hydration and curing.

2. Thickening and Binding:
   It acts as an effective thickener and binder, enhancing the consistency and workability of products like adhesives, coatings, and paints.

3. Film-Forming:
   HPMC forms a transparent, flexible, and durable film, making it ideal for use in coatings, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical tablets.

4. Thermal Gelation:
   It exhibits thermal gelation properties, which are useful in applications requiring temperature-sensitive thickening or gelling.

5. pH Stability:
   HPMC is stable over a wide pH range (2–12), making it suitable for use in acidic, neutral, and alkaline environments.

6. Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly:
   HPMC is biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe for use in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.

Applications

1. Construction Industry

• Tile Adhesives: Improves workability, adhesion, and open time.

• Cement-Based Mortars: Enhances water retention, workability, and sag resistance.

• Self-Leveling Compounds: Provides smooth flow and leveling properties.

• Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS): Improves durability and crack resistance.

2. Pharmaceutical Industry

• Tablet Binder: Acts as a binder and disintegrant in tablet formulations.

• Ophthalmic Solutions: Used as a viscosity modifier in eye drops.

• Controlled-Release Drug Delivery: Provides sustained release of active ingredients.

3. Food Industry

• Thickener and Stabilizer: Used in sauces, dressings, and dairy products.

• Emulsifier: Helps stabilize emulsions in food products.

• Gluten-Free Baking: Improves texture and moisture retention in gluten-free baked goods.

4. Personal Care and Cosmetics

• Creams and Lotions: Acts as a thickener and stabilizer.

• Shampoos and Conditioners: Enhances viscosity and texture.

• Toothpaste: Provides consistency and stability.

5. Paints and Coatings

• Water-Based Paints: Improves viscosity, stability, and brushability.

• Adhesives: Enhances bonding strength and workability.

Technical Specifications

• Chemical Name: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

• Appearance: White to off-white powder

• Solubility: Soluble in water; insoluble in organic solvents

• Viscosity Range: 5–200,000 mPa·s (depending on grade)

• pH Stability: 2–12

• Gel Temperature: 50–90°C (depending on grade)

• Moisture Content: ≤5%

Usage Guidelines

1. Dispersion:

• HPMC should be evenly dispersed in water to avoid clumping.

• For best results, add HPMC slowly to water under constant stirring.

2. Dosage:

• The recommended dosage varies depending on the application (typically 0.1–2% by weight).

• Conduct preliminary tests to determine the optimal dosage.

3. Compatibility:

• HPMC is compatible with most common additives and materials.

• Test for compatibility when combining with other chemicals.

Safety and Handling

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight.

• Handling: Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks to avoid inhalation or contact with skin and eyes.

• Environmental Impact: HPMC is biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

Why Choose Our HPMC?

• High Purity: Our HPMC meets stringent quality standards for various industries.

• Customizable Grades: Available in a wide range of viscosities and specifications to meet your needs.

• Technical Support: Expert guidance and tailored solutions for your specific applications.

• Reliable Supply: Consistent availability to ensure uninterrupted production.

Conclusion

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a multifunctional additive that offers exceptional performance in construction, pharmaceuticals, food, personal care, and coatings. Its unique properties, including water retention, thickening, film-forming, and thermal gelation, make it an indispensable material across industries. Whether you need it for tile adhesives, tablet formulations, or food stabilization, our high-quality HPMC delivers reliable performance and exceptional value.