Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) are cellulose ethers that have had hydroxyl groups on the cellulose chain substituted for a methoxy or hydroxypropyl group. HPMC is used as a thickener, binder, and film former in agrochemicals, coatings, ceramics, adhesives, inks, and various other applications. Aqueous solutions of HPMC will reversibly gel when exposed to heat allowing for a controllable boost is green strength of green ceramic bodies.
Advantages of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose
Improved product performance
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is known for its ability to enhance the performance of products in various applications. In pharmaceutical formulations, it acts as a binder, providing cohesive properties and facilitating tablet formation.
Water retention and film-forming properties
One of the key benefits of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is its water retention capability. In many applications, such as cement-based mortars and adhesives, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose helps retain water, preventing premature drying and ensuring proper hydration of the mixture. This leads to improved workability and extended open time.
Enhanced stability and shelf life
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose plays a crucial role in stabilizing formulations and extending the shelf life of products. In food and beverage applications, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose acts as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier, preventing phase separation and maintaining the desired consistency.
Improved texture and mouthfeel
In the food industry, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose contributes to the texture and mouthfeel of various products. It acts as a texture modifier, providing desirable attributes such as creaminess, smoothness, and mouth-coating properties.
Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose(HPMC) is a kind of white or slightly yellowish powder, odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic. The product can be dissolved in cold water to form a transparent viscous solution. The aqueous solution of this product has surface activity so that it has emulsification, protective colloids and relative stability.
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Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is propylene glycol ether of methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl and methyl combine with anhydrous glucose ring by ether bond.It is white or pale white cellulose powder or particles.It has different types of products, the methoxy and hydroxypropyl content ratio is different. It is white or gray fibrous powder or particles. It is soluble in water and some organic solvents and unsoluble in ethanol. Aqueous solution has a surface activity, the formation of the film after drying, heated and cooled, in turn, from the sol to gel reversible transformation.
Compatibility of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose offers compatibility with a wide range of ingredients and formulations. It can be used in combination with other additives to achieve specific functionalities and performance goals. Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is compatible with different polymers, resins, and solvents, allowing for the formulation of tailored products. Its compatibility extends to both organic and inorganic systems, enabling its use in various industries and applications.

Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose can be dissolved in a variety of solvents, including water, alcohol, acetone, chlorinated solvents, aromatic hydrocarbons, propylene glycol, glycerol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and dimethylformamide ( DMF). But is not soluble in hot water. Solvent selection depends on the desired performance of the hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose solution, specific application requirements, and health, safety, and environmental considerations.
What Are the Properties of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose?
Stability
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose has many features such as thickening power, salt discharge performance, pH stability, water retention, excellent film-forming properties, extensive resistance to enzymes, dispersion and adhesion.
Water-holding property
In putty, the main roles of celluloses are water retention, adhesion, lubrication and so on. Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose has high water-holding performance, surface opticity and improves uniformity.
Dispersibility
In the production of synthetic resin, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose plays the role of protective colloidal agents and can effectively prevent polymeric particles from agglomerating. In the floating polymerization of vinyl chloride (VC), the disperse system has a direct impact on the product, PVC resin, and the quality of processing and products.
Adhesion
In such materials as the adhesive mortar and surface mortar in the thermal mortar system, celluloses mainly plays a role of bonding, water retention and increasing strength. It also helps to improve construction, water-retaining property and resistance to hanging.
Thickening property
In interface agents, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose mainly functions as the thickening agent and can increase the the tensile strength and flexural strength. It also helps to improve surface coatings, enhance adhesion and improve the bonding strength of mortar.
Constructability
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose has the properties of improving the workability, good water-retaining property, enhancing adhesion and high resistance to hanging. Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose can improve the sticking and tiling efficiency, and also enhance bonding strength and shear strength.
The melting point of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is one of its thermal properties. Under normal circumstances, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a colorless, odorless, non-toxic crystal with a melting point of approximately 225 to 254 degrees C and 190 to 195 degrees C. When heated, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose begins to soften and expand, then melts in an amorphous form.
Application of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose
Construction industry
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used in the construction industry as an adhesive, thickener and water retaining agent. When added to cement-based products such as mortar, stucco and concrete, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose improves workability by enhancing the adhesion and cohesion of the material.
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Pharmaceutical industry
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry as a binder, thickener and disintegrant. Often used in tablet and capsule formulations to improve drug quality. When added to pharmaceutical formulations, it increases the cohesion of the powder, making it easier to handle. It also enhances the solubility and bioavailability of drugs, making them more easily absorbed by the body.
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Cosmetics industry
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is an important ingredient in the cosmetics industry. It is used as a thickener, emulsifier and stabilizer in many cosmetic formulations, such as shampoos, lotions and creams. In shampoos, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose increases the viscosity and consistency of the product, making it easier to apply and distribute evenly.
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Food industry
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used as a thickener, emulsifier and gelling agent in the food industry. It is commonly used in processed foods such as sauces, dairy products and baked goods. When added to food formulations, it improves the texture and consistency of products, providing a smooth, creamy texture.
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Textile industry
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used in the textile industry as a sizing agent for threads and fabrics. When applied to fabric, it adds strength, durability and stiffness to the material. It also prevents fabrics from shrinking or wrinkling during washing and drying.
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Ydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is produced by treating cellulose with sodium hydroxide to form alkali cellulose, which is then reacted with propylene oxide and methyl chloride to substitute hydroxyl groups on the cellulose chain with hydroxypropyl and methyl groups, respectively.
Is Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Natural or Synthetic?
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is an odorless, tasteless, white to off-white, fibrous or granular, free-flowing powder. Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is produced through a chemical modification process where cellulose undergoes treatment with propylene oxide and methyl chloride. While the base material, cellulose, is natural, the modification process involves synthetic chemicals, making hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose a semi-synthetic substance.
Cellulose source selection
The HPMC manufacturing process begins with the selection of a cellulose source. Cellulose is a natural polymer found in plant cell walls and can be derived from various sources, including wood pulp, cotton linters, and other plant-based materials.
Alkaline treatment
The selected cellulose is subjected to an alkaline treatment to remove impurities, hemicellulose, and lignin. This treatment typically involves the use of an alkaline solution, such as sodium hydroxide (NAOH).
Etherification
After the alkaline treatment, the cellulose is ready for etherification. Etherification is a critical step in the HPMC manufacturing process, where the cellulose chains are chemically modified to introduce hydroxypropyl and methyl groups. These modifications are responsible for the water solubility and other properties of HPMC.
Washing and neutralization
After etherification, the resulting product is washed to remove any unreacted chemicals, impurities, and byproducts. The washing process is typically performed using water or other suitable solvents. Subsequently, the product is neutralized to achieve the desired pH level.
Purification
The neutralized product undergoes purification steps to further refine its quality. Purification typically includes processes like filtration, washing, and other separation techniques to remove any remaining impurities and byproducts.
Drying
The purified HPMC is then dried to reduce its moisture content to a specific level. The dried HPMC is typically in powder form, but it can be further processed into various forms, including granules or ready-to-use solutions, depending on the intended application.
Quality control and testing
Throughout the entire manufacturing process, quality control and testing play a crucial role. Conduct rigorous quality assurance procedures to ensure the quality, consistency, and safety of their HPMC products.
Avoid inhaling
Avoid inhaling HPMC dust or airborme paticles, especially during handling and processing. Use appropriate respiratory protection such as dust masks or respirators if working with HPMC powder in a dusty environment.
Eye contact
In case of eye contact, immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing. Seek medical attention if iritation persists.
Avoid skin contact
Avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact with HPMC solutions or dry powder. Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling If iritation occurs, seek medical advice.
Storage
Store HPMC products in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination and moisture absorption.
Handling with care
Handle HPMC with care to minimize the generation of dust and airborne particles. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing when handling HPMC powder.
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Changzhou Guoyu Environmental S&T Co.,Ltd is a China hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (hpmc) manufacturer, we have our own factory, which can serve you high-purity and food-grade hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (hpmc) at cheap price.
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