How to Choose cellulose ethers for building materials manufacturer?

05 Jun.,2025

 

How to Choose Correct Cellulose Ethers for Putty Powders?

1. What are wall putty and its functions

Cellulose ethers for putty is a broad cellulose ether application. Wall putty is a white fine powder that evens out the surface and creates a leveled surface for further coats of paint. Putty fills the minor cracks and pores on the walls. It further helps in removing any undulation on the wall. Thus in simple words, it can be safely said that before starting the paintwork, it is essential to apply it. Ideally, a minimum of two coats of putty should be used.

With competitive price and timely delivery, KDOCEL sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Wall putty is a material with high plasticity and resembles clay. Cellulose Ether is an additive used to enhance the functioning of wall putty and gives it better strength and better finish.

2. Functions of cellulose ethers for putty

Cellulose ether is a non-ionic semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose. Cellulose ethers are of two types water-soluble and solvent-soluble. It performs multiple-functions and is useful in different industries. In chemical industries, Cellulose ethers are used as a thickener, leveling property, water-retaining agent, binder, and film-former. These are also used as suspension aids, surfactants, lubricants, protective colloids, emulsifiers, dispersing agents, control release matrix material, etc. in various industries.

Cellulose ethers are widely used in various building materials and industries because of the range of collective effects it offers. Cellulose ethers for putty exert the following function, such as-

  • Cellulose ether for wall putty improves the adhesion and mechanical properties of the putty
  • Improves the solid force of the putty
  • Gives Alkali resistance, wear-resistance, and improved flexural potency
  • Improves the water and dispersion resistance of the putty
  • Enhance the durability of the putty by improving impact resistance capacity
  • Advance the water retention capacity of the putty

3. Effects of cellulose ethers with different viscosities on putty powders

Mixing cellulose ether, organobentonite, and starch ether make the special cellulose ether for putty. Cellulose ether serves the purpose of water conservation. Moreover, in the batch where putty is used for scraping purposes, the function of cellulose ether increases manifolds as it smoothens the surface. The range from to plays a very crucial role in the structure and finish of the end product.

For both dry powder putty and putty paste, the modified methylcellulose and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ether is used. Since the role of cellulose ether HPMC in wall putty is water retention, lubrication, adhesion, etc., the viscosity range of -cps is the most appropriate.

The viscosity ratio of cellulose ethers for putty is different depending upon the putty formulation as there are wall putty made up of light calcium, ash calcium, white cement, etc. whereas some manufacturers use gypsum powder instead of white cement. There are different effects of viscosity-

Effects of Low viscosity–low viscosity has poor water retention but is considered suitable for leveling.
Effects of middle viscosity-Medium viscosity range -, used mainly for wall putty to provide superior water retention.
Effects of high viscosity-high viscosity of cellulose ethers for putty also enhance the putty viscosity. It helps in avoiding the occurrence of drooping in the construction and gives an easy and effort-saving wall scraping experience.

4. MIKEM Cellulose Ether Products for Putty Powders

MelaColl is a trademark for MIKEM’s cellulose products and derivatives. We offer both standard and customized/tailored grade products for your specific industrial application.

Mikrant is a trademark for MIKEM’s redispersible polymer powder product. Our Mikrant RDP products form a complementary technology to our MelaColl cellulose portfolio.

4.1 For Cement-based Putty

The addition of our MelaColl cellulose ethers for putty and Mikrant products in cement-based putty applications can improve product performance in the following ways:

  • Improved water retention and consistency
  • Improved adhesion and cohesion
  • Improved workability and processability
  • Increased hydrophobicity

4.2 For Gray Calcium-based Putty

The addition of our MelaColl cellulose ethers for putty application can improve the following properties:

  • Improved water retention
  • Improved sag resistance
  • Improved workability
  • Improved workability and processibility
  • Improved adhesion and cohesion

4.3 For Gypsum-based Putty

Our MelaColl cellulose ether products are specially formulated additives that can enhance the performance and processing features of the gypsum products in the following ways:

  • Good water retention and extended working time
  • Optimized product consistency and rheology
  • Reduced lump formation
  • Improved adhesion and sag resistance

7 Key Differences of HPMC and HEMC | Best Tips for Selection

Cellulose ethers play a vital role in various industries. There is a diverse range of cellulose ethers available on the market. Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) and Hydroxyethyl Methylcellulose (HEMC) stand out as popular choices. They are the cellulose derivatives.

This guide delves deep into the common properties and differences between HPMC and HEMC. We will go further about their chemical structures, properties, and optimal use cases. Let’s get started!

What is Cellulose Ethers?

Cellulose ethers are a group of derivatives formed by the reaction of cellulose. That includes the reaction of alkali with cellulose and etherifying agents. They are products where ether groups partially or completely replace hydroxyl groups on the cellulose molecule.

Cellulose ethers are used in construction projects as thickeners, binders, and emulsifiers. You can find a lot of them used in construction to enhance performance.

Cellulose≠Cellulose Ether

About Cellulose

Cellulose is a natural renewable resource primarily sourced from terrestrial plants and certain marine organisms.

About Cellulose Ethers

The raw material for producing cellulose ethers comes from two major sources: cotton and wood cellulose. In China, cellulose ethers are primarily derived from refined cotton.

Top 4 Cellulose Ethers In Construction:

– HPMC

– HEMC

– HEC

– CMC

Besides construction, you can find them in daily chemicals, paints, and more industries.

What is Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose(HPMC)?

HPMC is a type of cellulose ether derived from natural cellulose. HPMC chemical is a water-based product. It can form gel-textured colloids when dissolved in water. It is a thickener, water retention agent, and film-forming agent in various applications.

Top 7 HPMC Uses:

– Tile Adhesives.

– Wall Putty.

– Mortars.

– Plasters.

– Paints.

– Honeycomb Ceramic.

– Daily Chemicals.

What is Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose(HEMC)?

HEMC is also known as MHEC on the market. HEMC is a non-ionic cellulose ether. It serves as emulsion protective colloids in polymerization processes. It can undergo targeted modifications for versatile applications.

MHEC Powder Uses by Industries:

– Building and Construction.

– Waterborne Coatings.

– Personal Care Products

– Oil Technologies.

For more information, please visit cellulose ethers for building materials manufacturer.

Top 7 Differences between HPMC and HEMC

1. HPMC and HEMC: Difference in Functional Groups

HPMC: Methoxy (-OCH3), Hydroxypropoxy (-OCHCH2OH) groups.

HEMC: Methoxy (-OCH3), Hydroxyethyl (-OCH2CH2OH) groups.

> Methoxy Group (-OCH3)

Lacks a hydroxyl group, exhibits low polarity, and has poor hydrophilicity.

> Hydroxyethyl Group (-OCH2CH2OH)

Contains a hydroxyl group, demonstrates higher polarity, and excellent hydrophilicity.

> Hydroxypropyl Group (-OCHCH2OH)

It contains a hydroxyl group and has good hydrophilicity. However, due to steric hindrance from the methyl group, its polarity is less than that of hydroxyethyl. This issue may lead to HPMC having a less effective thickening effect than HEMC.

2. HPMC and HEMC: Differences in Degree of Substitution (DS) Standards

The degree of substitution of hydroxyethyl and hydroxypropyl groups is relatively close.

Molecular Weight of the Functional Groups

> Hydroxyethyl: 60

> Hydroxypropyl: 74

This implies that even with the same degree of substitution (DS) in terms of mass fraction, HEMC contains a higher number of hydroxyethyl groups compared to the other. So, HEMC has a higher DS than HPMC.

3. HPMC and HEMC: Differences in the Impact of Functional Group

A higher degree of hydrophilic substitution leads to stronger binding with water molecules. Methyl cellulose ethers can dissolve in cold water. But, as the solution temperature rises, there will be an issue comes up. The detachment from cellulose molecules and forming gel-like precipitates. This is also known as gelation.

Gel Temperature

HEMC’s gel temperature is higher than HPMC. WOTAIchem’s standard HEMC gel temperature is around 75° to 85°. And the HPMC gelation temperature is around 55° to 75°.

Therefore, if you reside in countries with hot climates like India, Indonesia, or Africa, MHEC powder is the best choice! You can also choose our pure HEMC powder for construction projects in extreme environments.

Its application performance shows that at the same dosage and viscosity level. HEMC has a higher water retention rate at high temperatures, as illustrated in the following graph:

4. HPMC and HEMC: Differences in Water Solubility

HPMC with delayed dissolution is called surface-treated HPMC. It readily dissolves in hot water and forms clusters in cold water before swelling. In contrast, HEMC readily dissolves in cold water but does not dissolve in hot water. So, HPMC solubility is better than HEMC’s.

5. HPMC and HEMC: Difference in Price

Typically, the HEMC powder price is slightly higher than that of MHEC powder price. The main distinction lies in what you prioritize.

If you have a sufficient budget, we recommend using MHEC. However, the choice between these cellulose ethers should also be based on your specific application needs.

6. HPMC and HEMC: Different in Applications

HEMC is ideal for environments with temperatures around 45-50°C. It is suitable for summer construction. When used in equivalent amounts to HPMC, HEMC demonstrates superior water retention, heat resistance, and sag resistance. HEMC also introduces finer air bubbles compared to HPMC.

Other benefits of HEMC powder:

> Extending setting time,

> Enhancing workability.

> Better pumpability during construction.

HPMC vs. HEMC: Key Takeaways

The main difference between HEMC and HPMC is their chemical structures. It is determined by differences in the number of functional groups and their hydrophilicity. HEMC cellulose exhibits stronger water retention in construction projects in hot climates. And the HPMC cannot achieve the same effects as HEMC through modification.

What Are the Common Properties of HPMC and HEMC?

1. Solubility

The solubility of cellulose ethers in alkaline aqueous solutions, water, or organic solvents depends on the nature of the etherifying groups and the degree of substitution (DS).

DS < 0.1: Insoluble.

DS 0.2~0.5: Soluble in alkaline aqueous solutions.

2. Viscosity of Aqueous Solutions

Influencing Factors of Cellulose Ether Viscosity:

– Polymer chain (degree of polymerization or molecular weight).

– Solution concentration.

– Temperature.

3. Stability

Cellulose ethers are susceptible to cellulase enzymes and microorganisms. Stability increases with a higher degree of substitution or uniformity of substitution.

4. Toxicity and Ecological Impact

Cellulose ethers are non-toxic. They can undergo biodegradation. So, long-term storage and accumulation should be avoided.

5. Uses

HEMC and HPMC powders are two commonly used cellulose ethers in dry-mix mortars for construction applications.

Your Trusted Cellulose Ether Factory for HPMC and HEMC Supply

WOTAIchem is one of the largest cellulose ether manufacturers in China. We provide quality HPMC, HEMC, and HEC chemicals for your different construction applications.

WOTAIchem offers customized solutions for cellulose ethers. Our team comprises experts with years of experience. They can design products and formulations tailored to your specific requirements. Our sales team can also provide analysis and market trend updates on the cellulose ether market. We are committed to the long-term growth of both parties.

Contact WOTAIchem today to explore how we can enhance your construction projects!

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit redispersible polymer powder rdp.