MHEC (Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose) is a non-ionic cellulose ether derived from the chemical modification of natural cellulose. It is widely used in industries such as construction, coatings, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food, primarily as a thickener, water retention agent, binder, and stabilizer.
Key Properties
- Water Solubility:
- Easily dissolves in cold water, forming a transparent or semi-transparent colloidal solution.
- Thickening Ability:
- Provides excellent thickening effects, significantly increasing the viscosity of the system.
- Water Retention:
- Effectively prevents rapid water evaporation in construction materials.
- Film-Forming Ability:
- Can form flexible and transparent films.
- Stability:
- Exhibits good stability in acidic, alkaline, and saline solutions.
- Eco-Friendliness:
- Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Applications
- Construction Materials:
- Dry-Mix Mortars: Such as tile adhesives, plasters, and skim coats, to improve workability and water retention.
- Self-Leveling Mortars: Enhances flowability and anti-settling properties.
- Waterproofing Mortars: Improves waterproofing performance and bonding strength.
- Coatings:
- Acts as a thickener and stabilizer in water-based coatings, improving leveling and anti-splashing properties.
- Pharmaceuticals:
- Used as a drug release agent, capsule material, or tablet binder.
- Cosmetics:
- Used in emulsions, creams, and other products as a thickener and stabilizer.
- Food Industry:
- Used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in sauces, dairy products, and baked goods.
Role in Construction Materials
- Improved Workability:
- Enhances the lubricity and operability of mortars.
- Enhanced Water Retention:
- Prevents rapid water loss, improving the strength after hardening.
- Reduced Cracking:
- Minimizes shrinkage and cracking by improving water retention and cohesion.
- Increased Bonding Strength:
- Enhances the bonding performance between mortar and substrates.
Storage and Handling
- Store in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture absorption.
- Keep the packaging sealed to prevent clumping.
- Avoid contact with strong acids, bases, or oxidizers.
