Cellulose Ether
 Cellulose ether refers to a group of chemically modified cellulose derivatives where hydroxyl groups on the cellulose backbone are substituted with ether groups such as methyl, hydroxyethyl, or carboxymethyl groups. These modifications improve solubility, viscosity, and film-forming properties while maintaining biodegradability and non-toxicity. Cellulose ethers are white to off-white powders or granules that dissolve in water to form viscous, stable solutions. They are widely used as thickeners, binders, stabilizers, and film formers in industries such as construction, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and paper.
Cellulose Ether Uses
- Â Primary UsesÂ
Construction Industry
- Used as thickeners and water retention agents in cement, plaster, tile adhesives, and mortars.
- Improves workability, adhesion, and open time of construction materials.
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Utilized as binders, film formers, and controlled-release agents in tablets and capsules.
- Acts as suspending and thickening agents in liquid pharmaceutical formulations.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Employed as viscosity modifiers and stabilizers in lotions, creams, shampoos, and gels.
- Enhances texture, spreadability, and moisture retention.
Food Industry
- Used as stabilizers, thickeners, and emulsifiers in sauces, dressings, ice cream, and bakery products.
- Helps improve texture and shelf-life.
Secondary UsesÂ
Paper Industry
- Functions as coating binders and additives to improve surface strength and print quality.
Adhesives & Sealants
- Acts as rheology modifiers and thickening agents in water-based adhesives and sealants.
Oil & Gas Industry
- Added to drilling fluids to control viscosity and reduce fluid loss.
Textile Industry
- Used as sizing agents to strengthen fibers and improve weaving performance.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Various cellulose ether derivatives (e.g., methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose)
- Common/Trade Name: Cellulose Ether
- CAS Numbers: Varies by derivative (e.g., methyl cellulose CAS 9004-67-5, hydroxyethyl cellulose CAS 9004-62-0)
- HS Code: 3912.20.00 (general for cellulose ethers)
- Molecular Formula: (C6H7O2(OR)x)n where R depends on substitution
- Synonyms:
- Cellulose Glycol Ethers
- Methyl Cellulose (MC)
- Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC)
- Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White to off-white powder or granules
- Color & Odor: White/off-white; odorless
- Melting Point: Decomposes before melting
- Boiling Point: Not applicable
- Density: Approx. 1.3 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Soluble in cold and hot water forming viscous solutions
- Insoluble in organic solvents
- pH (1% aqueous solution): Neutral to slightly alkaline (typically 6–9 depending on type)
- Stability: Chemically stable under normal storage; resistant to mild acids and alkalis
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0
- Flammability: 1 (dust may be combustible)
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: No established occupational limits; considered safe under normal use
- Toxicity: Non-toxic, non-irritant, biodegradable
- Reactivity: Inert under normal conditions
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Container Type: Sealed plastic or fiber drums/bags with moisture barrier.
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years if kept sealed and dry.
- Special Handling: Avoid dust formation and accumulation; use dust extraction systems if necessary.
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Many cellulose ethers are GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) for food and pharmaceutical applications.
- REACH Status: Registered under applicable regulations.
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous materials.
- Waste Disposal: Biodegradable; dispose according to local environmental regulations.
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; biodegradable.
- Persistence: Biodegradable in natural environments.
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate.
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic.
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable.
- Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Dust mask or respirator if dusty conditions arise
- Protective eyewear to prevent irritation
- Gloves recommended for extended handling
Handling Measures:
- Minimize dust generation
- Use in well-ventilated areas
- Avoid inhalation and contact with eyes
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly sealed and dry
- Store away from strong oxidizing agents and moisture
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during use
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move affected person to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory irritation occurs.
- Skin Contact: Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops.
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- Ingestion: Non-toxic; rinse mouth and seek medical advice if large quantities ingested.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible dust may form explosive mixtures in air.
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚.
- Special Precautions: Prevent dust accumulation; wear suitable protective equipment.
Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides and small amounts of formaldehyde under incomplete combustion.