HPMC characteristics, uses and industry reference ratios

Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) is a polymer made by modifying natural cellulose. It has a variety of industrial applications in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and construction. HPMC is a nonionic cellulose ether that is easily soluble in water and can form a transparent, viscous solution that remains stable over a wide pH range.

Features of HPMC include:

1. High water retention capacity: HPMC can absorb water and hold it in place, making it useful as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in many applications.

2. Good film-forming properties: HPMC can form transparent films with good mechanical strength. This allows it to be used in the production of capsules, coatings and other products.

3. High surface activity: HPMC has surface-active properties, allowing it to be used as a wetting agent and dispersant.

4. Good thermal stability: HPMC is stable at high temperatures and can be used in applications requiring this performance.

5. Good adhesion to various surfaces: HPMC can bond to many surfaces, making it useful in the production of adhesives and coatings.

The uses of HPMC in various industries:

1. Medicine: HPMC is widely used in pharmaceutical preparations as a binder, disintegrant, and viscosity regulator. It is available in tablets, capsules and liquid formulations.

2. Food: HPMC is used as a thickener, stabilizer and emulsifier in food. It can be used in products such as ice cream, yogurt and salad dressings.

3. Cosmetics: HPMC is widely used in cosmetics as a thickener, emulsifier, and film-forming agent. It can be used in products such as creams, lotions and shampoos.

4. Construction: HPMC is a key ingredient in many construction materials such as tile adhesives, cement-based plasters and mortars. It acts as a water retaining agent, improves workability, and provides better adhesion and shrinkage control.

HPMC industry reference ratio:

1. Water retention: The water retention rate of HPMC is an important parameter that determines its effectiveness as a thickener and adhesive. The property has industry reference rates of 80-100%.

2. Viscosity: Viscosity is a key parameter in selecting HPMC for various applications. Industry reference ratios for viscosity range from 5,000 to 150,000 mPa.s.

3. Methoxyl group content: The methoxyl group content of HPMC affects its solubility, viscosity and bioavailability. The industry reference ratio for methoxy content is between 19% and 30%.

4. Hydroxypropyl content: The hydroxypropyl content affects the solubility and viscosity of HPMC. The industry reference ratio for hydroxypropyl content is between 4% and 12%.

HPMC is a versatile polymer with numerous industrial applications. Its unique properties make it suitable for use in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics and construction. Industry reference ratios for various parameters assist in selecting the appropriate grade of HPMC for a specific application.


Post time: Sep-14-2023