- HEC vs HPMC An In-depth Analysis of Two Key Hydrocolloids
- Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Versatile Applications in Various Industries
- Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a vital ingredient in the construction industry, particularly in the formulation of building coating adhesives. It's a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. The building coating adhesive sector has significantly benefitted from HPMC's unique properties, making it an indispensable component in modern construction materials.
The main findings of the studies evaluated in the previous assessments, in particular in the ANS Panel opinion (EFSA ANS Panel, 2018) are summarised below.
- Furthermore, HPMC helps to improve the overall performance of the skim coat by providing excellent sag resistance and crack resistance. The polymer helps to maintain the integrity of the skim coat, even on vertical surfaces or ceilings, reducing the risk of sagging or cracking during application and drying.
- Another option is to buy hydroxyethyl cellulose from a local chemical supply store or hardware store. These stores often carry a wide range of chemicals and may have the product you need in stock. However, the selection and quality may be more limited compared to online suppliers.
- Overall, HPMC is considered safe for most individuals when used as directed. However, if you experience any side effects while using products containing HPMC, it is important to stop using the product and speak with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if the side effects are related to the HPMC or if there may be another underlying cause.
- In the construction industry, HPMC finds application as a water retention agent and a viscosity enhancer in cement and mortar mixes. It improves the workability of these materials, enhances their setting time, and reduces shrinkage cracks, thereby increasing the durability of structures.
- Molecular weight also impacts solubility. Lower molecular weight HPMC tends to dissolve more readily in water than its higher molecular weight counterparts. This is because larger molecules require more energy to overcome intermolecular forces, thus affecting their solubility.
- HPMC is a chemically modified cellulose derivative that is water-soluble and has a high degree of stability. It is commonly used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in many products. Its ability to form transparent gels makes it a popular choice in pharmaceuticals for coating tablets and controlling drug release.
- One of the key factors propelling the market forward is the push towards green building solutions. Redispersible polymer powders enhance the properties of cement-based mixtures while reducing the overall consumption of cement, which is energy-intensive and contributes significantly to carbon emissions. This eco-friendly advantage aligns well with global sustainability initiatives, making these powders an attractive option for manufacturers and end-users alike.
- In the pharmaceutical sector, HEC serves as a binder, disintegrant, and viscosity enhancer in tablet formulations
- In addition to its environmental and ease of use benefits, VAE redispersible powder also offers excellent performance properties
- The pharmaceutical industry also benefits from HEC powder's properties
- Another factor that influences the price of HPMC is the production process. Different manufacturers may use varying production techniques and technologies, which can affect the quality and purity of the final product. Higher quality HPMC is typically more expensive than lower quality grades, as it requires more sophisticated production processes and higher levels of expertise.



6. HPMC VS HEC : Application


The present assessment is based on data submitted by the applicant in the form of a technical dossier5 in support of the authorisation request for the use of HPMC as a feed additive.
Answer: HPMC is widely used in building materials, coatings, synthetic resins, ceramics, medicine, food, textile, agriculture, cosmetics, tobacco and other industries. HPMC by use can be divided into: construction grade, food grade and pharmaceutical grade. At present, most of the domestic construction grade, in the construction grade, the amount of putty powder glue is very large, about 90% is used to do putty powder, the rest is used to do cement mortar and glue.
Where the HPMC capsule has been coated with a colour, the coating may well be synthetic. Titanium dioxide is commonly used to colour capsules, and this synthetic colourant has some associated health risks and warnings. It is possible to naturally colour capsules, but only in certain colours. Shades of green can be achieved with a coating of chlorophyll, and a purple capsule shell is available using a purple carrot extract.