How to dissolve HPMC in water to produce detergent?

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a thickener and stabilizer widely used in detergents. It can improve the viscosity, stability and foam performance of detergents, making detergents more efficient and easy to operate during use.

1. Introduction to HPMC

1.1 Basic properties of HPMC

HPMC is a non-ionic cellulose ether, mainly obtained by introducing hydroxypropyl and methyl groups into cellulose molecules. It has good solubility, thickening, emulsification and film-forming properties, and is widely used in detergents, food, medicine, cosmetics and other fields.

1.2 The role of HPMC in detergents

Thickener: HPMC can increase the viscosity of detergents, making it difficult to flow during use, and increase the attachment time on vertical surfaces, thereby improving the cleaning effect.

Stabilizer: It can prevent the sedimentation of solid components in detergents and maintain the uniformity of the system.

Film-forming agent: It can form a thin film on the surface of objects after washing to increase gloss.

Foaming agent: It helps to generate and stabilize foam.

2. HPMC dissolution method

2.1 Select the right HPMC

Select HPMC with appropriate viscosity and degree of substitution according to the needs of detergent. HPMC of different specifications differ in solubility, thickening ability, temperature tolerance, etc. Common specifications include high viscosity and low viscosity HPMC.

2.2 Dissolution temperature of HPMC

HPMC dissolves slowly in cold water, but swells easily when heated to above 60°C. After being completely dissolved in cold water, it can be further dissolved at a higher temperature. Therefore, when dissolving HPMC, it can be wetted with cold water first, and then gradually heated to above 60°C, or dissolved with hot water first and then cooled.

2.3 Dissolution process

Prepare the water phase:

Take an appropriate amount of water. It is recommended to wet HPMC with cold water first. If hot water is used directly, HPMC may form gel blocks and is not easy to dissolve.

Add HPMC:

Add HPMC powder slowly under stirring conditions to ensure uniform dispersion. The stirring speed should not be too fast to prevent bubbles or suspended particles.

If cold water is used, make sure that HPMC is completely wetted before gradually heating to about 60°C to dissolve it.

Stirring and dissolving:

Continue to stir the aqueous phase until HPMC is completely dissolved and a uniform solution is formed. This process may take 20-30 minutes, depending on the specifications and dosage of HPMC.

Adjustment and preservation:

Adjust the temperature and viscosity of the solution as needed. After completion, cool the solution to room temperature and avoid standing for a long time to prevent stratification or precipitation.

3. Precautions in HPMC dissolution

3.1 Avoid agglomeration

To prevent HPMC from agglomerating in water, it must be added slowly and evenly while stirring continuously. Using a powder adder can effectively avoid agglomeration.

3.2 Temperature control

Although HPMC can be dissolved in cold water, it is more efficient when properly heated. Therefore, the temperature should be properly controlled when dissolving HPMC to avoid excessively high or low temperatures. Excessively high temperatures may cause the solution to become turbid or gel, while excessively low temperatures may affect the dissolution rate.

3.3 Dissolution time

It takes a certain amount of time to dissolve HPMC, so you should be patient during the operation and continue stirring until it is completely dissolved. Depending on the specifications of HPMC, the dissolution time may vary.

4. Application examples of HPMC in detergent production

4.1 Liquid detergent

In liquid detergents, HPMC is mainly used to increase viscosity and stabilize foam. In a typical formula, the amount of HPMC added is generally 0.2%-1%, and the specific amount depends on the product requirements. The dissolution steps include:

Preparation of mother liquor:

Prepare HPMC aqueous solution first according to the above dissolution method.

Mixing ingredients:

Mix the prepared HPMC solution with other detergent ingredients (such as surfactants, additives, etc.) and stir evenly.

Adjustment:

Adjust the viscosity and other performance parameters as needed to ensure the stability and use effect of the detergent.

4.2 Laundry beads

In laundry beads, HPMC is used to stabilize liquid ingredients and control release. Its addition amount and dissolution method are similar to those of liquid detergents, but special attention should be paid to the uniformity of the solution and viscosity control to ensure the formation and stability of the beads.

5. Common problems and solutions

5.1 Solution stratification

The solution may stratify if it is left standing for a long time. Solutions include:

Continuously and slowly stir the solution to avoid standing.

Use an anti-settling agent to improve the stability of the solution.

5.2 Insufficient or excessive viscosity

If the viscosity does not meet the requirements, it can be controlled by adjusting the amount of HPMC or changing the temperature of the solution. If necessary, add an appropriate amount of thickener or diluent for adjustment.

5.3 Bubble problem

The bubbles generated during the stirring process may affect the uniformity of the solution. The bubbles can be reduced by reducing the stirring speed or adding an appropriate amount of defoaming agent to the solution.

As an important component in detergents, the dissolution process of HPMC directly affects the performance and quality of the product. Mastering the correct dissolution method and operation skills can effectively improve the production efficiency and use effect of detergents. During the production process, attention should be paid to controlling the temperature, stirring speed and dissolution time of the solution, and the formula should be adjusted as needed to achieve the best product performance. Through the above steps and precautions, HPMC can be successfully dissolved in water to produce detergent products with excellent performance.

Offering a full range of cellulose ether products, including wholesale HPMC, Kima Chemical is committed to delivering expert solutions across industries. Our advanced technical expertise enables us to provide reliable, customized products that drive innovation and operational excellence in every sector.