Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC, CAS 9004-62-0), several viscosity grades, supplied wholesale by Zyntex. Non-ionic thickener for emulsion paints, shampoos and gels, tile adhesives and oilfield fluids. CoA and SDS with every lot.
Description
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Product Overview
Hydroxyethyl cellulose is a white to off-white powder made by reacting cellulose with ethylene oxide. It dissolves in hot and cold water to give clear solutions, and because it is non-ionic, it tolerates salts and works over a wide pH range.
In addition, paint producers use it as the main thickener in water-based emulsion paints, and cosmetic producers use it in shampoos, body washes, gels and creams. Similarly, construction producers use it in tile adhesives and plasters, oilfield service companies use it in completion fluids, and pharmaceutical companies use it in eye drops and topical gels.
Notably, surface-treated grades disperse without lumps. Related thickeners in our range include Carbomer, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) and Sodium CMC.
Key Applications of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
Typical uses include, for example:
🎨 Emulsion Paints
Main thickener.
🧴 Personal Care
Shampoos and gels.
🏗️ Construction
Tile adhesives and plasters.
🛢️ Oilfield Fluids
Completion fluids.
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Standard Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) |
| CAS Number | 9004-62-0 |
| Viscosity Grades | Low to very high (per 2% solution) |
| Types | Surface-treated and untreated |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Documents | CoA and SDS with every lot |
⚠️ Safety & Handling: Not classified as hazardous under GHS; fine dust may form explosive mixtures with air. Avoid dust formation. Store in tightly closed bags in a dry place. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), because it contains the full classification and handling instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is HEC used in paints?
It thickens water-based paints and tolerates the salts and pigments in them.
What does surface-treated mean?
A treatment that delays dissolving so the powder disperses without lumps.
How can I get a price and documents?
We supply flexible quantities, from small orders to large volumes, so you do not need to meet the high minimum orders of large producers. Please contact us with your required volume, and we will send a quotation together with the CoA and SDS.
