How to use HEC thickener?

HEC (hydroxyethyl cellulose) is a water-soluble nonionic cellulose ether, which is widely used in various applications in industry and daily life, especially in thickening, suspension, protective colloid, film formation, etc.

1. Basic characteristics of HEC

HEC thickener is mainly used in water-based systems, with good thickening, suspension and adhesion, and can also improve the stability of the solution. Its main features include:

Water solubility: HEC can be completely dissolved in cold water and hot water to form a transparent and uniform solution.

pH stability: HEC can maintain good stability and thickening effect in a wide pH range (2~12).

Biodegradability: HEC is a derivative of natural cellulose, has good biodegradability and is environmentally friendly.

2. Uses of HEC

HEC is widely used in the following fields due to its excellent thickening properties:

Coatings industry: As a thickener and protective colloid, HEC can enhance the coating and rheology of the coating and prevent precipitation.

Daily chemical products: In detergents, shampoos, lotions and other daily chemical products, HEC is used to adjust viscosity and stabilize foam.

Building materials: In cement and gypsum, HEC can enhance the water retention of construction materials and prolong the operation time.

Food industry: As a food additive, it is used to adjust the texture and taste of food, such as dairy products and ice cream.

3. HEC usage steps

When using HEC thickener, the following steps should be followed to ensure its best effect:

Step 1: Pretreatment

Since HEC is in powder form and easily absorbs moisture and clumps, it should be well sealed before use to avoid moisture. At the same time, HEC should be added to the water slowly to avoid agglomeration caused by adding too much at one time.

Step 2: Dispersion

Cold water dispersion method: Slowly sprinkle the required amount of HEC into the stirred cold water (generally below 10°C), maintaining an appropriate stirring speed to avoid agglomeration. This process usually lasts 20-30 minutes until the HEC is completely wetted and dispersed.

Dry mixing method: First mix HEC with other solid raw materials (such as fillers, pigments, etc.) evenly, and then slowly add the mixture into water. With the help of the wrapping effect of the solid raw materials, HEC can be effectively prevented from agglomerating.

Step 3: Dissolution

After HEC is completely dispersed, the temperature needs to be raised to 25-60°C to accelerate the dissolution process. The dissolution time depends on the specific formula and the viscosity grade of the HEC used, usually 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 4: Adjust viscosity

By controlling the amount of HEC added, the viscosity of the final solution can be adjusted. If the viscosity does not meet the requirements, it can be fine-tuned by increasing or decreasing the amount of HEC.

Step 5: Add to the system

After HEC is completely dissolved and reaches the required viscosity, add it to the system of the target product. In order to maintain uniformity, proper stirring should be continued.

4. Precautions

Dissolution temperature: Although HEC can be dissolved in cold water, it dissolves faster at higher temperatures. Care should be taken to avoid excessive temperatures (usually not exceeding 60°C) to prevent loss of HEC performance.

pH adjustment: During use, the pH value of the system should be paid attention to and kept within the stable range of HEC to ensure its thickening effect and long-term stability.

Compatibility: The compatibility of HEC with other ingredients needs to be tested in advance, especially in systems containing electrolytes or other surfactants, to avoid mutual influence and performance degradation.

5. Common problems and solutions

Agglomeration problem: If HEC clumps in water, it can be solved by increasing the stirring speed or using solvent pre-wetting method.

Long dissolution time: When the temperature is too low or the stirring is insufficient, the dissolution time of HEC may be prolonged. It is recommended to ensure continuous and uniform stirring while appropriately increasing the temperature.

HEC thickener is widely used in many fields due to its excellent water solubility, thickening and stability. When using it, the key is to master the dissolution and dispersion process of HEC to ensure that it fully exerts its thickening effect. At the same time, pay attention to the impact of environmental factors on the performance of HEC during use to ensure the quality and stability of the final product.