hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC)

HEC Powder Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) is a water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose, the most abundant natural polymer on earth. HEC is widely used in various industries such as construction, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals due to its excellent thickening, stabilizing, and water-retaining properties. It is known for its ability to enhance the viscosity of solutions, making it a key ingredient in many formulations.

Molecular structure of hydroxyethyl cellulose

Main features of Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose(HEC)

Thickening Agent:

HEC is an exceptional thickening agent, providing a desirable viscosity to liquids without altering their other properties.

Water Retention:

HEC’s ability to retain water improves the longevity and durability of products.

Water solubility:

HEC’s water-soluble nature ensures it can be easily incorporated into water-based systems, simplifying the formulation process for manufacturers. It allows for consistent and even distribution across a variety of solutions.

Film Forming:

HEC forms a clear, flexible film when dried, which is useful in coatings and personal care products.

Emulsion Stabilizer:

 It stabilizes oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions, preventing the separation of ingredients in products like creams, lotions, and food dressings.

Rheology Modifier:

 It offers precise control over the flow properties of liquids, enabling the formulation of products that spread easily but remain in place upon application, such as in paints, creams, and adhesives.

Eco-Friendly:

Biodegradable and derived from renewable sources, supporting sustainable practices.

Product Technical Parameters

Properties Specification
Appearance White to off-white powder
Ash Content ≤ 5.0%
pH (1% solution, 25°C) 6.0 - 8.5
Viscosity 30,000-100,000
Moisture Content ≤ 5.0%
Degree of Substitution (Molar) 1.8 - 2.5
Gel Temperature 60 - 90°C
Purity ≥ 98%

Applications of Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose(HEC)

Mortar Hydroxyethyl cellulose

Cement and Mortar Mixes:

Usage Scenario: HEC is added to cement and mortar mixes to improve their workability and water retention. It helps in controlling the consistency and flow of the mix, making it easier to apply.

Advantages: Enhanced workability allows for smoother application and finishing. Improved water retention ensures that the cement cures properly, resulting in increased strength and durability of the mortar or concrete. This also reduces the risk of cracking during the curing process.

Tile Adhesives:

Usage Scenario: In tile adhesives, HEC acts as a thickener and stabilizer, ensuring the adhesive remains workable for a longer period and improves the bond strength between the tiles and substrates.

Advantages:HEC enhances ceramic tile adhesive by improving workability, water retention, adhesion, reducing sagging, and ensuring long-lasting installations. It optimizes performance, durability, and ease of application, making it a vital additive for high-quality tile installations.

tile adhesive
RDP VAE Redispersible Polymer Powder/Redispersible Latex Powder for coatings

Coating industry:

Usage Scenario: In paints and coatings, HEC serves as a rheology modifier and thickener, improving the spreadability and consistency of the paint.

Advantages: Enhances the paint’s application properties, resulting in a uniform finish without sagging or dripping. It also helps in maintaining the stability of the paint in the container, preventing separation or settling of pigments.

Recommended Products

Item Viscostiry Bookfield
WH-EC3 30,000
WH-EC5 50,000
WH-EC10 100,000

Package&Strorage:

HEC Product is packed in three layer paper bag with inner polyethylene bag reinforced , net weight is 25kg per bag.

We can also provide customized packaging and do OEM processing for you.

Keep it in cool dry warehouse,away from moisture, sun,fire,rain.

Hydroxyethyl cellulose for Tile Adhesive
Hydroxyethyl cellulose

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