Detergent-Grade HPMC Application Guide

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), a nonionic cellulose ether, is widely used in detergents for laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, shampoos, and body washes due to its excellent thickening, emulsifying, film-forming, and stabilizing properties. It effectively improves product rheology, user experience, and overall quality.

I. Performance Characteristics

Highly Efficient Thickening Ability

HPMC achieves significant thickening at low addition levels, imparting excellent flowability and wall-cling properties. Its viscosity is pH-insensitive and remains stable in alkaline solutions.

Good Solubility and Appearance

This high-purity product dissolves rapidly in cold water to form a clear, transparent solution, making it particularly suitable for detergent formulations requiring high clarity.

Emulsification and Stabilization

HPMC exhibits a certain surface activity, assisting in emulsifying oil-phase components, improving system stability, and preventing separation or precipitation during storage.

Safe and Mild Properties

Derived from natural cellulose, it is non-toxic and non-irritating, with high biocompatibility. It is suitable for sensitive skin and infant cleansing products, and exhibits excellent environmental and biodegradability.

Improves the feel and feel of alcohol-based systems.

Forms a fine colloidal film during the washing process, imparting a smooth feel to skin and clothing while enhancing the fineness and longevity of the foam.

II. Main Applications

Laundry Detergents and Dishwashing Liquids: Improves system stability and rheological properties, improving wall cling and pourability.

Shampoos and Shower Gels: Provides excellent compatibility with common surfactants, enhances foam quality, and forms a moisturizing film after washing.

Hand Soaps and Disinfectants: Optimizes the feel and spreadability of alcohol-based systems, stabilizes foam, and reduces nozzle clogging.

Paste Cleansers: Provides suspension and rheological control, preventing solid particle settling and maintaining a uniform appearance.

III. Selection and Processing Recommendations

Viscosity Selection: Medium-to-high viscosity grades are recommended, balancing thickening and solubility.

Compatibility: High-purity, low-ash grades are recommended to ensure compatibility with anionic and nonionic surfactant systems.

Dosing Process: It is recommended to first disperse the HPMC powder in cold water before adding it to the main system and stirring to dissolve. This is to avoid direct addition to high-temperature or high-salt environments, which may cause clumping.

IV. Market Trends and Prospects

With increasing market demand for green and mild detergents, HPMC, as a naturally derived polymer additive, is gradually replacing some synthetic thickeners. Its safety, environmental friendliness, and multifunctionality make it particularly well-suited for transparent formulations, baby care, and high-end personal care products, and its application prospects are broad.