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Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose HPMC, also known as hypromellose, is a semi-synthetic, non-ionic cellulose ether derived by chemically modifying cellulose through methylation and hydroxypropylation. It is a white to off-white, odorless, tasteless powder that dissolves in cold water to form clear, viscous solutions. HPMC is renowned for its thickening, film-forming, emulsifying, and controlled-release properties. It is widely used in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, construction, and industrial applications due to its safety profile, versatility, and compatibility with various ingredients.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Primary Uses
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Used as a binder, film former, and controlled-release agent in oral solid dosage forms such as tablets and capsules.
- Employed as a viscosity enhancer and suspending agent in ophthalmic solutions, gels, and topical formulations.
- Acts as a matrix polymer in sustained-release drug delivery systems, regulating drug dissolution and absorption.
- Serves as a protective colloid and stabilizer in various pharmaceutical suspensions and emulsions.
- Food Industry
- Utilized as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in bakery products, dairy alternatives, sauces, and dressings.
- Functions as a gluten substitute in gluten-free baking, improving texture and moisture retention.
- Acts as an anti-caking agent and film former in edible coatings and wraps.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Incorporated as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and film former in creams, lotions, shampoos, and sunscreens.
- Enhances product texture, improves spreadability, and stabilizes emulsions.
- Provides moisturizing and protective effects in topical formulations.
- Construction Industry
- Used as a water retention agent and thickener in cement, mortar, and plaster formulations.
- Improves workability, adhesion, and surface smoothness of building materials.
- Industrial Applications
- Functions as a thickener, binder, and stabilizer in paints, coatings, adhesives, and printing inks.
- Employed in ceramics and paper manufacturing as a binder and rheology modifier.
Secondary Uses
- Oil & Gas Industry
- Applied as a viscosifier and stabilizer in drilling fluids and fracturing gels.
- Textile Industry
- Used as a sizing agent and thickener in textile printing and finishing processes.
- Biomedical Research
- Utilized in tissue engineering and as a component in hydrogel scaffolds due to its biocompatibility.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
- Common/Trade Name: HPMC, Hypromellose
- CAS Number: 9004-65-3
- HS Code: 3912.90.00
- Molecular Formula: Variable polymer (C12H20O10)n substituted with methyl and hydroxypropyl groups
- Synonyms: Hypromellose, Methocel, Methocel E series
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White to off-white powder
- Odor: Odorless
- Solubility: Soluble in cold water forming clear, viscous solutions; insoluble in organic solvents
- Viscosity Range: Adjustable from low to high depending on substitution and molecular weight
- pH Stability: Stable between pH 3 to 11
- Thermal Stability: Stable up to approximately 200–220 °C (degradation above this range)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Generally regarded as safe; non-toxic, non-irritating
- Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; non-sensitizing
- Exposure Limits: No occupational exposure limits established
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and heat
- Container Type: Sealed polyethylene bags or drums
- Shelf Life: Typically 24 months under recommended conditions
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation and inhalation; use dust masks if necessary
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Approved for use in pharmaceuticals (USP/NF), food (FDA GRAS), and cosmetics globally
- Listed in pharmacopoeias and cosmetic ingredient directories (INCI: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose)
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Dust mask, gloves, and safety goggles when handling powder
- Handling Guidelines: Minimize dust generation; use in well-ventilated areas
- Storage Measures: Keep container sealed and dry
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms develop
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical attention if irritation occurs
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; low toxicity but seek medical advice if large quantities are swallowed
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible solid; burns with a yellow flame
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, CO₂
- Special Precautions: Avoid inhalation of smoke; wear protective equipment
- Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic fumes
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