The core role of hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) in daily chemical products

1. Chemical nature and basic properties

Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) is a non-ionic cellulose ether obtained by alkalization of natural cellulose and etherification with ethylene oxide. The hydroxyethyl group on its molecular chain gives it unique multifunctional properties:

Water solubility: soluble in cold/hot water to form a transparent or translucent solution;

Stability: Tolerant to pH 2-12, temperature ≤80℃ (short-term up to 100℃);

Biocompatibility: Passed FDA 21CFR182.90 and EU EC/1223/2009 certification, and meets animal-free (Vegan) requirements.

2. Industry application essence

Shampoo/shower gel:

Synergize with anionic surfactants (such as SLES) to enhance foam stability (extend foam half-life by 20%-40%);

Recommended DS (degree of substitution) 0.8-1.5, dosage 0.3%-1.2% (compounded with sodium chloride to adjust the rheological curve).

Skin care products:

Exhibits pseudoplasticity (shear thinning) under high shear, improves the spreadability of emulsions (spreading area increases by 15%-25%);

Combined with glycerin/hyaluronic acid, dynamic moisturizing is achieved (48-hour stratum corneum water content +18%).

Detergents:

Anti-precipitation: In liquid laundry detergent containing 5% sodium citrate, the suspension stability is >12 months;

Environmental advantages: biodegradation rate >90% (OECD 301B standard).

3. Technological frontiers and market trends

Green innovation: Compounded with natural polysaccharides (such as inulin), reducing the amount of synthetic polymers by 30%;

Precise controlled release: As a microcapsule wall material (drug loading rate ≥85%), sustained release of active ingredients such as vitamin E;

Market data: In 2023, the global demand for daily chemical-grade HEC will reach 127,000 tons (CAGR 5.1%), and China will account for 45% of the production capacity (China Chemical Information Center).

4. Authoritative suggestions for formula design

Dissolution process: Pre-disperse in cold water and heat to 50℃ for activation (avoid "fish eye" phenomenon);

Anti-corrosion system: Need to be matched with double preservatives (such as phenoxyethanol + caprylhydroxamic acid);

Contraindications: Avoid direct mixing with high concentration of cations (such as quaternary ammonium salts>2%) to prevent flocculation.

Conclusion

HEC has become a strategic raw material for daily chemical formula design with its "one dose, multiple effects" characteristics. Its scientific mechanism of action (such as rheological regulation, interface stability) and quantifiable performance advantages (with experimental data support) have established its irreplaceable status in personal care products. In the future, with the development of functional modification and green technology, HEC will continue to lead the innovation and upgrading of the daily chemical industry.