Methyl Cellulose 400mpc
Methyl Cellulose 400mpc is a chemically modified cellulose derivative in powder form. It is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer widely used as a thickener, binder, emulsifier, and film former. It exhibits excellent water retention, viscosity control, and thermal gelation properties, making it ideal for applications in construction, pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics.
Methyl Cellulose 400mpc
Primary Uses
- Construction Industry
- Acts as a thickener and water retention agent in cement, mortar, and plaster formulations.
- Improves workability, adhesion, and surface finish in tile adhesives and gypsum-based products.
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Used as a binder and controlled-release agent in tablet formulations.
- Serves as a suspending agent in liquid medications.
- Food Industry
- Functions as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and thickener in bakery products, sauces, and dairy items.
- Enhances texture and moisture retention in gluten-free and low-fat foods.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Used as a thickener, stabilizer, and film former in lotions, creams, shampoos, and other formulations.
Secondary Uses
- Paper and Textile Industry
- Applied as a coating agent and binder in paper products.
- Used in textile printing and finishing for improved fabric hand and durability.
- Oil Well Drilling
- Used as a viscosity modifier and fluid loss reducer in drilling mud formulations.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Methoxy cellulose
- Common/Trade Name: Methyl Cellulose 400 MPC
- CAS Number: 9004-67-5
- HS Code: 3912.90.00
- Synonyms: Methyl ether of cellulose; cellulose methyl ether
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Powder
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; odorless
- Solubility: Soluble in cold water, forms viscous solution; insoluble in hot water and organic solvents
- Viscosity: Approx. 400 mPa·s (2% aqueous solution at 20°C)
- Thermal Gelation: Forms reversible gel upon heating (around 50–60°C)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; standard dust control recommended
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and contaminants
- Container Type: Supplied in sealed bags or drums
- Shelf Life: Typically 24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation; use protective masks if necessary
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic grade standards (e.g., USP, FCC)
- Registered under relevant chemical and food safety regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Dust mask and gloves recommended during handling
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation of dust
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and dry
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash skin with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; generally considered non-toxic but seek medical advice if symptoms occur
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible dust; powder can form explosive dust-air mixtures
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Avoid dust generation and accumulation
- Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon oxides under fire conditions
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