Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) is a nonionic cellulose ether polymer,HPMC have different chemical properties according to the degree of substitution of substituent groups and different degrees modification,it is a nonionic,tasteless,odorless white cellulose ether powder.
WelCel hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) can be used in construction materials,industrial coatings,ceramics,textiles,agricultural agriculture,cosmetics etc.
* Appearance: Whitish to yellowish even particle or powder
* Partical Size: 98% pass 80 mesh
* Drying Loss Ratio: <=5.0
* Viscosity (mPa.s): 400-
* PH Value: 5-9
* Water Retention Ratio (%): >=90
* Carbonization temperature: 280-300ºC
* Color change temperature: 190-200ºC
* Density: 370-380g/l
1.Solubility
Soluble in water and some solvents,such as the appropriate proportion of ethanol/water, propanol/water
2.Non-ionic charge
Cellulose is non-ionic ,not combined with metal salts and ionic organic compounds to form insoluble precipitates.
3.Water retention
Cellulose has excellent water retention properties,so that it is less likely to close water quickly or be absorbed by the base material too quickly.
WelCel HPMC also work well in high temperature environments.
4.Thickening
The aqueous system has thickening properties,the degree of thickening depends on the viscosity of the product and the type of compound used.
5.Film formation
Make a tough,soft film with excellent oil and grease
6.Bonding
As an adhensive for paper and also for use in paints.
7.Suspension
Prevent solid particles from precipitating out,as it inhibits the formation of slag.
8.Protective colloid
Prevent small particles and granules from agglomerating.
9.Emulsification
Stabiliza emulsions by reducing surface and interfacial tension and by thickening the aqueous phase.
10.Sag resistance
Improve thixotropy of the product so that there is no slippage even at considerable thickness.
11.Wetting ability
Cellulose has the ability to wet substrates,even on special substrates,without the phenomenon of curing.
12.Open time
Extend the hardening time of the product,fully hydrate the raw material,and improve the tensile strength and flexibility of the product.
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Pharmaceutical-grade HPC
Pharmaceutical hydroxypropyl cellulose is especially pure and meets rigorous requirements for pharmaceutical use. It is commonly applied in drug delivery systems in tablets, capsules, and controlled-release formulations. Due to its property of being a gel-forming soluble polymer, it can also be applied in eyecare products, such as artificial tears.
Industrial-grade HPC
Industrial-grade hydroxypropyl cellulose is less pure but still functional for many industrial uses. It is commonly used as a thickener, binder, and film-forming agent in diverse applications, such as construction materials, coatings, and adhesives. Its chemical stability and water solubility make it appropriate for divergent manufacturing processes.
Food-grade HPC
Hydroxypropyl cellulose is also used in the food industry. There it is applied as a food additive (thickening agent E463, film-forming agent, and for controlled release of flavors and nutrients). It is also used to enhance the texture of applications such as dairy and baked goods while maintaining consistency and extending shelf life.
Cosmetic-grade HPC
Soon, hydroxypropyl cellulose has applications in cosmetics and personal care products. It is used in lotions, creams, and shampoos for thickening and improving the feel of formulations on the skin. It is also valued for its ability to retouch moisture to keep the product fresh and effective during its shelf life.
Viscosity grade
The viscosity grade of an HPC type influences how thick or gel-like a solution will become when that type of HPC is dissolved in water. High-viscosity grades will produce thicker gels or more viscous solutions while low-viscosity grades will yield HPC solutions that are more runny and less gel-like. The specific application will determine the preferred viscosity grade of hydroxypropyl cellulose. For example, in pharmaceutical applications where HPC is applied, such as sustained-release drug formulations, there is a need to control the speed at which active ingredients are released. This is done by using specific viscosity grades. Low-viscosity grades are better suited for early drug release, while high-viscosity grades are more appropriate for extended release.
Purity and grade
Buyers also need to consider the grade and purity of HPC. Pharmaceutical-grade hydroxypropyl cellulose is highly pure and should meet strict standards for quality and consistency. Such types are used for drug delivery systems found in tablets and capsules. There is also Food-grade hydroxypropyl cellulose that conforms to safety regulations of food additives. These types of HPC are suitable for applications in the food industry, including texture modification and controlled release of flavors.
Compatibility
Gel-forming soluble polymers such as hydroxypropyl cellulose are suitable for a multitude of uses precisely because of their compatibility with other materials. Hydroxypropyl cellulose should be evaluated for its compatibility with specific formulations to avoid negative reactions. In cosmetics, for example, HPC is usually combined with other ingredients such like glycerin and dimethicone. When it is compatible with these materials, it enhances product stability and consistency.
Supplier reliability
As is the case when purchasing any other products in bulk, buyers should look for reputable suppliers who reliably provide consistent high-quality hydroxypropyl cellulose. It is imperative that the suppliers are transparent with the details on the sources of their raw materials as well as their manufacturing processes. Doing so will ensure they conform to the quality and purity standards required for pharmaceutical, food, industrial, or cosmetic-grade hydroxypropyl cellulose.
Pharmaceuticals
In the Western medicine practice, hydroxypropyl cellulose is used to produce artificial tears or moisturizers of the eye. Hydroxypropyl cellulose is also used in the formulation of oral medications for controlled drug release. In this practice, it acts as a thickening agent, binder, and stabilizer. The demand is primarily driven by the need for high-quality excipients in drug formulation and an increase in the popularity of ophthalmic products.
Cosmetics and personal care
In cosmetics, hydroxypropyl cellulose is valued for its ability to improve product texture and feel. It is commonly found in lotions, creams, and sunscreens, where it serves as a thickener and emulsifier. The prospects for hydroxypropyl cellulose in this industry are largely dependent on changing consumer preferences for premium skincare products and the need for natural or synthetic polymer alternatives.
Food industry
Hydroxypropyl cellulose is a food additive (E463) in the food industry. It is added to manage textural properties of food products, particularly in low-fat or gluten-free formulations. Its capability to form flexible films also makes it useful for protecting food items. The food industry's continuing need for clean-label chemicals and additives that enhance food texture and shelf-life fuels demand in this sector.
For more information, please visit Daily chemical grade hydroxypropyl methylcellulose HPMC.
Construction and industrial applications
In the construction and manufacturing industries, hydroxypropyl cellulose is used as a thickening agent in paints, coatings, and adhesives. It improves product viscosity and workability. The growth potential is influenced by developments in the building industry and demanding applications in coating technology.
Purity level and viscosity grade
Hydroxypropyl cellulose is available in various viscosity grades and purity levels. The higher the grade of the HPC type, the higher its price will be. Pharmaceutical-grade types of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose will usually cost more than industrial-grade types because they must conform to stricter purity standards.
The source of raw materials
Hydroxypropyl cellulose is made from cellulose derivatives such as cotton and wood pulp. However, the source of the cellulose can affect the price of the final product. That is, high-quality cellulose derived from specialized sources may be more costly than standard sources.
Production process
The process of modifying cellulose to create hydroxypropyl cellulose is complex and involves several steps. Some types need more rigorous chemical treatment than others. These processes require more costly reagents and longer processing times. This increases the cost of the hydroxypropyl cellulose. Moreover, if the HPC type is produced in smaller quantities, for niche applications, it will be more expensive compared to commonly used, bulk-grade types.
Supply chain dynamics
The cost of transporting and storing the raw materials and the final hydroxypropyl cellulose product will affect its price. Market instability, such as changes in fuel costs or interruptions in the availability of shipping containers, can significantly increase the prices of HPMC. Less fluctuation in pricing occurs when the market is stable, and cheaper hydroxypropyl cellulose is usually found when the supply chain is optimized.
Technological advances
There are always ongoing efforts aimed at improving the production processes of hydroxypropyl cellulose. These improvements and innovations, however, require initial investments that can cause the prices to increase temporarily before they are ultimately reduced due to improved efficiency.
Buy in bulk
Buying a large quantity of hydroxypropyl cellulose at once lowers the cost per unit. Suppliers often give discounts for bulk purchases. Such large purchases also mean fewer separate orders will have to be placed, which saves on shipping and handling expenditures as well as time.
Choose generic or lesser-known brands
There are usually brand-name and many other generic hydroxypropyl cellulose types that have similar active ingredients and effects. The latter are often cheaper but still have the same results as the more expensive branded ones.
Compare prices online
Buyers need to take the time to compare costs from different sellers. Often, the same product will be more expensive at one store than it is at another. However, it is critical to compare sellers’ reputations and reviews to ensure it is a reputable seller before making quick decisions based on pricing alone. Consideration should also be given to the costs of shipping that could make the overall price they quote for hydroxypropyl cellulose higher than that of other suppliers.
Look for promotions and special offers
It always pays to be on the lookout for special offers and promotions that retailers may run occasionally. Sales events, seasonal discounts, or special deals for first-time buyers can all lead to savings on hydroxypropyl cellulose purchases. Buyers can also subscribe to news updates from their favorite retailers so they will be informed of any promotions.
Leverage loyalty programs
Sometimes, retailers offer loyalty programs or special discounts to repeat customers. Hydroxypropyl cellulose buyers can enroll in these programs to earn rewards or discounts, helping them save money over time. Whenever they have to purchase hydroxypropyl cellulose products frequently, they should take advantage of the opportunities that loyal customers get.
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