Hydroxyethyl cellulose is a gelling and thickening agent derived from cellulose. It is widely used in cosmetics, cleaning solutions, and other household products. Hydroxyethyl cellulose and methyl cellulose are frequently used with hydrophobic drugs in capsule formulations, to improve the drugs' dissolution in the gastrointestinal fluids. This process is known as hydrophilization.
Hydroxyethyl cellulose is one of the main ingredients in the lubricant KY Jelly. It is also a key ingredient in the formation of big bubbles as it possesses the ability to dissolve in water but also provide structural strength to the soap bubble.
Character
White to light yellow fibrous or powdery solid, non-toxic, tasteless, easily soluble in water. Insoluble in general organic solvents. The PH value is within the range of 2-12 and the viscosity changes little, but beyond this range the viscosity decreases. It has properties of thickening, suspension, adhesion, emulsification, dispersion, moisture retention and colloid protection. Solutions with different viscosity ranges can be prepared. It is unstable under normal temperature and pressure, avoiding humidity, heat and high temperature, and has unusually good salt solubility for the dielectric. Its aqueous solution can contain high concentration of salt and remain stable.
Application
Used as adhesive, surfactant, colloid protectant, dispersant, emulsifier and dispersing stabilizer etc. It is widely used in coating, ink, fiber, dyeing, papermaking, cosmetics, pesticide, mineral processing, oil extraction and medicine.
China
