Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer material produced by chemical modification of natural cellulose. It possesses excellent stability, film-forming properties, strong thickening ability, and insensitivity to temperature and electrolytes. Therefore, it is widely used in various industries, including construction, coatings, daily chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food. Its core functions mainly include thickening, water retention, lubrication, stabilization, and improvement of construction performance.
1. Core Functions in Building Materials
1.1. Water Retention
HPMC has a significant water absorption and retention effect, reducing excessive water absorption by the substrate and lowering the rate of water evaporation, thus ensuring that the water in the mortar is used for normal hydration reactions. High water retention HPMC can significantly increase the open time of the mortar, prevent hollowing and cracking, and achieve better bonding and hardening effects.
1.2. Thickening and Improved Workability
The thickening function of HPMC can improve the thixotropy of the mortar, making it smoother and easier to apply, preventing sagging and bleeding. In materials such as tile adhesive, putty powder, plastering mortar, and self-leveling compounds, it can control rheological properties, making the material easier to handle during construction.
1.3. Increased Adhesion
HPMC has good film-forming properties, forming a flexible thin film at the interface between the substrate and the mortar, improving adhesion and reducing powdering. Especially in tile adhesives, insulation mortars, and waterproof putties, HPMC can significantly enhance the bonding effect.
1.4. Enhanced Anti-Slip and Anti-Sagging Capabilities
In tile adhesives, HPMC can improve the anti-slip performance during vertical application, preventing tiles from sliding down after application, ensuring construction efficiency and quality.
1.5. Delayed Setting Time
For some mortar systems, HPMC can provide a moderate delaying effect, allowing the material a longer open time, which is beneficial for large-area construction.
2. Applications in the Coatings Industry
2.1. Thickening and Rheology Modification
HPMC is used as a primary thickener in water-based coatings, providing suitable system viscosity, preventing splashing and sagging during brushing and roller application, and improving the application experience.
2.2. Film Formation and Stabilization
It enhances the uniformity of coating film formation, reduces sedimentation, prevents pigment and filler aggregation, and improves storage stability.
3. Uses in the Pharmaceutical Field
3.1. Tablet Coating Material
HPMC is an excellent film-forming agent and binder, used in tablet coating to improve appearance, stability, and taste masking.
3.2. Controlled Release Systems
Utilizing the swelling and film-forming properties of HPMC, it can be used as an important material in sustained and controlled-release formulations for regulating drug release rate.
3.3. Capsule Shell Material
HPMC is widely used in plant-based capsules, characterized by its safety, stability, and absence of animal components.
4. Applications in the Daily Chemical Industry
4.1. Washing and Cleaning Products
HPMC is used as a thickener and suspending agent in hand sanitizers, laundry detergents, and toilet cleaning products, making the system transparent, stable, and non-separating.
4.2. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
In facial masks, lotions, and conditioners, HPMC provides a smooth feel, film-forming moisturizing properties, and improves application texture.
5. Applications in the Food Industry
HPMC can be used as a food thickener and stabilizer in systems such as bread, cakes, and beverages, improving leavening, moisture retention, and structural stability.
6. Other Industrial Uses
In inks, ceramics, oil drilling fluids, and latex systems, HPMC is also widely used due to its thickening, lubricating, and colloidal protection properties.
Post time: Dec-05-2025