Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC) is a non-ionic, water-soluble cellulose ether produced from refined natural cellulose through controlled etherification. It is designed as a multi-functional performance additive providing thickening, water retention, rheology control, stabilization, and binding properties across construction, industrial, and consumer applications.
Thanks to its excellent compatibility, stable viscosity behavior, and reliable performance, MHEC is widely used in cement-based materials, detergents, oilfield fluids, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food systems. Different grades are available to meet specific formulation and regulatory requirements.
Specification
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Chemical Type | Non-ionic cellulose ether |
| Solubility | Soluble in cold water |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 5.0% |
| Ash Content | ≤ 5.0% |
| pH Value (1% solution) | 6.0 – 8.0 |
| Viscosity (2% solution, 20°C) | 10,000 – 200,000 mPa·s (customizable) |
| Particle Size | ≥ 95% through 80 mesh |
Key Functional Properties
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Efficient thickening and viscosity control
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Strong water retention and moisture management
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Excellent rheology modification and flow stability
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Good film-forming and binding ability
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Stable performance over a wide pH and temperature range
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Non-ionic nature ensures high formulation compatibility
Application Areas
Construction & Building Materials
Used to improve workability, open time, and application stability in tile adhesives, dry-mix mortars, wall putty, cement and gypsum plasters, repair mortars, EIFS/ETICS systems, and self-leveling compounds.
Detergent & Home Care
Acts as a viscosity modifier and stabilizer in liquid detergents and cleaning products, enhancing formulation stability and suspension performance.
Oil Drilling & Oilfield Chemicals
Functions as a viscosifier and fluid-loss control agent in water-based drilling fluids, completion fluids, and workover systems.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Provides smooth texture, stable viscosity, and improved sensory performance in creams, lotions, gels, and emulsions.
Pharmaceutical Applications
Used as a binder, thickener, and controlled-release agent in tablets, topical gels, ointments, and liquid formulations (pharmaceutical grade).
Food Industry
Food-grade MHEC serves as a thickener and stabilizer, delivering consistent texture and improved stability in aqueous food systems.
Product Forms & Grades
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Construction grade
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Industrial grade
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Cosmetic / pharmaceutical grade (upon request)
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Food grade (upon request)
Viscosity and performance can be customized according to application needs.
Packaging & Storage
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Packaging: 25 kg multi-layer kraft paper bags with inner PE liner
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Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
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Shelf Life: 24 months in original sealed packaging
