HEMC Product Overview

Product Name: Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose (HEMC)

English Name: Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose

Common Synonyms: Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose; MHEC; Hydroxymethyl Ethyl Cellulose

Chemical Overview: Hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose is a cellulose derivative ether. Its structure consists of hydroxyl groups on the cellulose chain replaced by methoxy (-OCH₃) and hydroxyethoxy (-OCH₂CH₂OH) groups. According to the European Pharmacopoeia, different grades are usually distinguished by the apparent viscosity (mPa·s) of a 2% (w/v) aqueous solution at 20°C.

Main Properties

Solubility: HEMC is soluble in cold water and some organic solvents, forming a clear to slightly turbid viscous solution. Its solubility is related to viscosity; generally, the lower the viscosity, the higher the solubility.

Salt Resistance: As a non-ionic cellulose ether, HEMC exhibits good resistance to metal salts and organic electrolytes in aqueous solutions, and the solution properties are relatively stable. However, it should be noted that excessive addition of electrolytes may lead to gelation or precipitation.

Surface Activity: Its aqueous solution exhibits surface activity and can be used as an effective colloidal protectant, emulsifier, and dispersant, contributing to system stability.

Thermal Gelation: HEMC aqueous solutions undergo reversible gelation when heated to a specific temperature, manifesting as turbidity, a sharp increase in viscosity, and even precipitation. This gelation temperature depends on the specific product specifications; the solution returns to a homogeneous state upon cooling.

Physiological Inertness and Sensory Properties: HEMC is metabolically inert and virtually odorless and tasteless, properties that meet the requirements for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Antimicrobial Properties and Storage Stability: This product exhibits good antifungal properties, and the viscosity of its aqueous solution remains stable during long-term storage.

pH Stability: The viscosity of HEMC aqueous solutions remains stable within a pH range of 3.0 to 11.0, showing minimal influence from acids and alkalis.

Application Areas

Due to its comprehensive properties including thickening, binding, emulsification, dispersion, film formation, suspension, water retention, and colloid protection, hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC) is widely used in multiple industries:

Building Materials: As a highly efficient water-retaining agent and thickener in cement-based materials (such as mortar and putty), it significantly improves workability and anti-sagging properties.

Daily Chemical and Industrial Applications: Used as a colloidal protectant, emulsion stabilizer, and dispersant, suitable for formulations in coatings, adhesives, ceramics, and personal care products.

Food and Pharmaceutical Industries: Utilizing its safe physiological inertness and stable properties, it is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and film-forming agent.

In summary, hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC) is a versatile polymer material additive with comprehensive performance and high safety.