Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) Powder
I. Introduction
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose HPMC Powder is a versatile, water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose. Its unique properties have made it a widely used ingredient across various industries. This article provides a detailed overview of HPMC powder, including its basic information, physical and chemical properties, applications, specifications, and safety considerations.
II. Basic Information of HPMC
Name: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)
Appearance: White to off-white powder or granules.
CAS Number: 9004-65-3
HS Code: 3912390000, 3912110000
III. Physical and Chemical Properties of HPMC
Solubility: HPMC powder is soluble in cold water, forming a clear, viscous solution. It also dissolves in hot water but exhibits thermal gelation, where it forms a gel upon heating and dissolves upon cooling.
pH Stability: HPMC is stable over a wide pH range from 3.0 to 11.0.
Viscosity: Available in a range of viscosity grades, typically between 400 to 75,000 mPa.s.
Particle Size: 99% passes through an 80-mesh sieve.
Moisture Content: ≤5%.
IV. Applications of HPMC
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Binder and Disintegrant: Used in tablet and capsule formulations to improve drug quality and enhance bioavailability.
- Controlled Release: Forms sustained-release coatings for drugs, ensuring prolonged therapeutic effects.
- Bioadhesive: Acts as a bioadhesive in mucosal drug delivery systems.
- Food Industry
- Thickener and Emulsifier: Used in sauces, dressings, ice cream, and dairy products to stabilize and thicken formulations.
- Stabilizer: Prevents crystallization in ice cream and dairy products.
- Fat Replacer: Used in low-fat food formulations.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Thickener and Stabilizer: Enhances viscosity and stability in lotions, creams, and shampoos.
- Film-Former: Used in hair styling products and facial masks.
- Construction Industry
- Water Retention Agent: Improves workability and prevents rapid drying of cement-based products.
- Thickener: Enhances the consistency of mortars and plasters.
- Paints and Coatings
- Thickener and Film-Former: Used to improve adhesion and gloss in paints.
V. Specifications of HPMC
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 400-75,000 mPa.s |
| Particle Size | 99% pass 80 mesh |
| pH Value | 6-8 |
| Moisture Content | ≤5% |
| Methoxy Content | 19-24% |
| Hydroxypropyl Content | 4-12% |
| Ash Content | Max 5.0% |
VI. Safety and Environmental Impact
Non-Toxic: HPMC powder is safe for use in food and pharmaceutical applications.
Biodegradable: It breaks down over time, making it an eco-friendly material.
VII. Conclusion
HPMC’s versatility and wide range of applications make it a crucial component in various industries. Its unique properties, such as improved stability, texture, and controlled release, offer significant benefits in formulating different types of products. Whether in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, construction, or paints, HPMC powder plays a vital role in enhancing product performance and meeting consumer demands.
References
- “Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose: Properties and Applications.” Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
- “Role of HPMC in Food and Construction Industries.” Industrial Chemistry Journal.
- “Safety and Regulatory Aspects of HPMC.” Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- FDA Guidelines on HPMC: https://www.fda.gov
- Chemical Safety Facts: HPMC: https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org
- Scientific Research on HPMC: https://www.sciencedirect.com