HEMC – Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose (CAS 9032-42-2)

Hydroxy Ethyl Methyl Cellulose（HEMC) is a non‑ionic, water‑soluble cellulose ether. It provides high water retention, higher gel temperature than HPMC, and good enzyme resistance.

  • CAS No.: 9032-42-2

  • Appearance: White powder

  • Solubility: Cold water soluble

  • pH (1% solution): 5.0–8.0

Key Properties-Hydroxy Ethyl Methyl Cellulose（HEMC)

  • Higher gel temperature (65–85°C) – ideal for hot climates

  • Excellent water retention – prevents cracking in mortars

  • Non‑ionic, salt‑tolerant, stable pH 3–11

  • Better enzyme resistance than HPMC

  • Smooth workability, non‑sticky

Main Applications-Hydroxy Ethyl Methyl Cellulose（HEMC)

Industry Use
Construction Tile adhesives, cement renders, gypsum plasters, self‑leveling compounds
Paints & coatings Thickener, anti‑sag, leveling agent
Personal care Shampoos, toothpaste – non‑sticky thickener
Ceramics Binder for glazes and bodies

Typical Technical Data

Parameter Range
Methoxy content 16–25%
Hydroxyethoxy content 4–12%
Viscosity (2% solution, 20°C) 1,000 – 100,000 mPa·s
Loss on drying ≤5%
Gel temperature 65–85°C

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between HEMC and HPMC?
HEMC has hydroxyethyl groups (instead of hydroxypropyl), giving higher gel temperature (65–85°C vs 58–75°C) and better enzyme resistance.

2. Why choose HEMC for hot‑climate construction?
It stays dissolved and retains water at higher temperatures – longer open time and stronger bonds.

3. Does HEMC dissolve in hot water?
No. Disperse in hot water (≥80°C), then add cold water – dissolves upon cooling.

4. What viscosity grade for tile adhesives?
Typically 15,000–60,000 mPa·s (2% solution). Medium viscosity (20,000–40,000) is most common.

5. Can HEMC be used with cement and gypsum?
Yes. Works well in both cement (high pH) and gypsum systems.

6. Is HEMC salt tolerant?
Yes – non‑ionic, so good tolerance to electrolytes. No precipitation.

7. What is typical dosage in dry‑mix mortars?
Tile adhesives: 0.2–0.5%; cement renders: 0.1–0.3%; self‑leveling: 0.05–0.15%.

8. How to store HEMC?
Cool, dry place. Reseal tightly – it absorbs moisture from air.

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