Cellulose Ether

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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.

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Categories: Admixtures, Thickeners Tags: Cellulose ether, Construction additives, Food additives and stabilizers, Paints and coatings, Personal care and cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals, White powder or granules

Description

Table of Contents

Cellulose Ether

Primary Uses

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 Uses

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.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. 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)

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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

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 CO₂.
Special Precautions: Prevent dust accumulation; wear suitable protective equipment.
Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides and small amounts of formaldehyde under incomplete combustion.