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hydroxyethyl cellulose cas number

Understanding Hydroxyethyl Cellulose CAS Number and Applications

Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose. Known for its thickening, suspending, emulsifying, and film-forming properties, HEC plays a crucial role in various industries including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and construction. Its chemical structure is characterized by the substitution of hydroxyethyl groups on the cellulose backbone, allowing it to dissolve in water and form viscous solutions.

The CAS number for hydroxyethyl cellulose is 9004-62-0. The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) assigns unique numerical identifiers to chemical substances, which facilitate the easy identification and tracking of various compounds. Knowing the CAS number is essential for professionals in research, industry, and regulatory compliance, as it ensures clarity when discussing or obtaining specific materials.

Properties of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose

HEC exhibits several advantageous properties that contribute to its widespread use. These include

1. Hydrophilicity HEC has a strong affinity for water, enabling it to dissolve seamlessly and form stable viscosity, making it suitable for aqueous systems.

2. Thickening Agent The ability of HEC to increase the viscosity of solutions is leveraged in numerous applications. The viscosity enhancement occurs even at low concentrations, which makes it cost-effective.

3. Stabilizing and Emulsifying Properties HEC aids in stabilizing emulsions, leading to more uniform mixtures that are crucial in cosmetic formulations, food products, and pharmaceuticals.

4. Film-forming Capability The polymer can create continuous films, which can be significant in applications such as coatings, adhesives, and controlled-release drug formulations.

hydroxyethyl cellulose cas number

Applications of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose

The versatility of HEC allows it to be employed across various sectors

1. Pharmaceuticals HEC is used in drug formulations for its binding and thickening properties. It plays a role in improving the bioavailability of drugs, enhancing the stability of compounding formulations, and acting as a controlled-release agent in tablet manufacturing.

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care In cosmetic products, HEC serves as a thickener, stabilizer, and film-forming agent. It’s commonly found in lotions, creams, shampoos, and gels. Its safety and compatibility with skin further enhance its appeal in personal care formulations.

3. Food Industry As a food additive, HEC helps improve texture, stability, and mouthfeel in various products. It can be used in sauces, dressings, and dairy products to prevent separation and enhance consistency.

4. Construction HEC is utilized as a thickener in cement-based products, enhancing the workability of mortars and plasters while improving water retention and reducing segregation. This makes it indispensable in modern construction materials.

5. Agriculture In agricultural applications, HEC acts as a binder and thickener in pesticide formulations, improving adherence to plant surfaces and allowing for enhanced delivery of active ingredients.

Conclusion

Hydroxyethyl cellulose (CAS 9004-62-0) is a highly versatile polymer with a myriad of applications across various industries due to its unique properties. As demand for safe and effective materials continues to grow, the role of HEC in enhancing product formulations remains significant. Its ability to improve texture, stability, and performance makes it a valuable ingredient in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and construction materials. As science and technology evolve, the exploration of hydroxyethyl cellulose’s potential will likely lead to even broader applications and innovations in materials science. Understanding its properties and applications is essential for industries reliant on quality and efficiency in product development.

Investigation of HPMC Solubility Characteristics in Aqueous Solutions