Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a nonionic cellulose ether chemically modified from natural polymer cellulose. Due to its good solubility, film-forming, adhesiveness, thickening, emulsification, suspension and thermal gelation, HPMC is widely used in many industries and has become an important multifunctional auxiliary material.
1. Application in the construction industry
In the construction industry, HPMC is mainly used in dry mortar, tile adhesive, putty powder, self-leveling floor materials and other products. Its main functions include:
Water retention: HPMC can significantly improve the water retention capacity of mortar, prevent problems such as cracking and powdering due to excessive water loss during construction, and improve construction quality.
Thickening effect: It can increase the viscosity of mortar, making it easier to construct and apply, and reduce falling and sagging.
Improve construction performance: HPMC increases the workability of mortar, making it more convenient and quick for workers to construct.
2. Application in the pharmaceutical industry
HPMC is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry, especially in the fields of tablet preparations and capsules:
Tablet coating material: HPMC is a commonly used coating material for sustained-release and controlled-release tablets. It has good film-forming properties and low irritation, and can improve the stability and release control of drugs.
Capsule shell material: HPMC capsule shells derived from plants are substitutes for gelatin capsules and are suitable for vegetarians and people who are sensitive to animal ingredients.
Binders and thickeners: In drug preparation, HPMC can also be used as a binder to make the powder compression molding effect better.
3. Application in the food industry
HPMC, as a safe and edible additive, plays an important role in food processing:
Emulsification and thickening: Adding HPMC to dairy products, jellies, and jams can improve the stability and texture of the product.
Low-calorie food development: HPMC can be used as a fat substitute for the production of low-fat foods, such as low-fat salad dressings, ice cream, etc.
Edible film: It has strong film-forming properties and can be used as a coating for candies and preserved fruits to enhance appearance and extend shelf life.
4. Application in the daily chemical industry
HPMC is also widely used in daily chemical products such as shampoo, toothpaste, and skin care products:
Thickener and stabilizer: It can effectively adjust the consistency of the product, improve stability, and prevent water-oil separation.
Form a soft film layer: In skin care products, it can form a soft protective film to help moisturize.
Improve touch and use experience: HPMC gives the product a better touch and smoothness of application, improving user satisfaction.
5. Coatings and paint industry
HPMC is also often used as an important additive in latex paint, playing the following roles:
Rheology control agent: Regulate the fluidity and construction properties of the paint to prevent sagging and splashing.
Dispersant and emulsifier: Improve the dispersion stability of the pigment to make the color more uniform and bright.
Improve adhesion and film-forming properties: After the coating dries, a uniform and solid film layer is formed to enhance surface protection performance.
6. Application in the agricultural industry
In agriculture, HPMC is often used in the fields of pesticide formulation and seed coating:
Suspension and emulsifier: Improve the stability and uniformity of the efficacy in pesticide suspension.
Seed coating agent: Helps seeds form a protective film to improve the disease resistance, insect resistance and water retention of seeds.
7. Ceramic and plastic processing industry
In the process of ceramic product molding, HPMC can be used as an adhesive and lubricant to improve the strength and smoothness of the blank. In plastic processing, HPMC is also used as a film former and dispersant.
8. Environmental protection and papermaking industry
In the papermaking process, HPMC can be used as a sizing agent and reinforcing agent to improve the smoothness and strength of paper. In the field of environmental protection, HPMC can be used in water treatment materials, as a flocculant or film-forming material, for heavy metal capture or the development of sewage treatment membranes.
HPMC has played an irreplaceable role in many industries such as construction, medicine, food, daily chemicals, agriculture, and coatings due to its excellent physical and chemical properties and wide functionality. With the development of science and technology and the increase in demand for new materials, the application field of HPMC is still expanding, and its market prospects are broad and have great development potential.
Post time: May-23-2025