What is the use of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose?

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a common semi-synthetic polymer, and its chemical name is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. It has good thickening, suspension, bonding, emulsification, film-forming, protective colloid, water retention and antimicrobial properties, and is therefore widely used in many fields.

Construction industry:

In building materials, HPMC is widely used in dry-mixed mortar, tile adhesive, putty powder and other products. It can improve the workability of mortar, increase its water retention and open time, and avoid cracks after drying. In addition, HPMC can also be used as an additive for waterproof coatings and decorative coatings to improve the adhesion and durability of the coating.

Pharmaceutical industry:

In the pharmaceutical field, HPMC is used as a tablet adhesive, coating material and matrix material for sustained-release preparations. It has good biocompatibility and safety and can be absorbed and metabolized by the human body. HPMC is also commonly used in the preparation of ophthalmic drugs as one of the components of artificial tears to relieve dry eye symptoms.

Food industry:

HPMC is used as a thickener, emulsifier and stabilizer in the food industry. It is commonly found in foods such as ice cream, jelly, condiments, bread, etc., and plays a role in improving the taste of food and extending the shelf life. In addition, HPMC can also be used as a substitute material for plant-based foods, providing a texture similar to that of animal-derived ingredients.

Cosmetics industry:

In cosmetics, HPMC is used as a thickener, stabilizer and film former. It is widely used in products such as lotions, creams, shampoos, conditioners, etc., providing suitable viscosity and texture, and helping to stabilize the emulsion system. In addition, the film formed by HPMC can also provide a protective layer on the skin surface to prevent water loss.

Daily chemical industry:

In daily chemical products such as cleaning products and detergents, HPMC is often used as a thickener and stabilizer to help the product maintain appropriate fluidity and stability. Its thickening effect can improve the feel of detergents, while its water retention can prevent the product from drying out.

Agriculture:

HPMC can be used in suspensions and colloids of pesticides to improve the adhesion and uniformity of drugs. In addition, HPMC is also used in seed coating and soil improvement to help improve soil structure and promote plant growth.

Other applications:

HPMC is also widely used in papermaking, textile, ceramic and other industries. In the papermaking industry, it is used as a surface treatment agent to improve the smoothness and printing performance of paper; in the textile industry, HPMC is used as a sizing agent and finishing agent for textiles; in the ceramic industry, HPMC is used as a plasticizer to improve the plasticity of ceramic blanks.

Due to its versatility and good physical and chemical properties, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose has become an important additive and functional material in many industries. Its wide application not only improves the performance and quality of products, but also improves production efficiency and product safety.