Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose HPMC

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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.

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Categories: Sealants and Adhesives, Additives, Emollients, Emulsifiers, Excipients, Thickeners Tags: Cellulose ether, Construction materials, Cosmetic Grade, Detergents & Cleaners, Food Grade, HPMC, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, Paints & Coatings

Description

Table of Contents

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose HPMC

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.

KEY ATTRIBUTES

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

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)

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

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

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)

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

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