Buying Guide: Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Powder (HPMC)

If Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Powder (HPMC) is a key part of your industrial or manufacturing process, this guide will serve as a valuable resource.

Let’s explore the fundamentals, characteristics, and applications of HPMC.

What is Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Powder?

HPMC is a non-ionic cellulose ether derived from natural polymers, primarily used as a thickener, binder, film former, stabilizer, and water-retention agent. It is widely applied in construction materials, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, paints, detergents, and food products due to its excellent performance in viscosity control and moisture regulation.

HPMC is a white to off-white powder that dissolves easily in cold water to form a transparent, viscous solution. It exhibits excellent thermal gelation, chemical stability, and enzyme resistance, making it ideal for formulations requiring controlled viscosity and adhesion.

How to Identify HPMC?

Common Identifiers and Forms:

• Appearance: White or light off-white, odorless powder

• Solubility: Soluble in cold water, forms colloidal solution

• CAS No.: 9004-65-3

• MF: C12H20O10

• EINECS No.: 220-971-6

Chemical Properties of HPMC

Applications of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Powder

HPMC is critical in a wide range of sectors:

1. Construction Industry

• Acts as a water-retention agent and thickener in cement, gypsum, and tile adhesives

• Enhances workability and adhesion in mortar and renders

2. Pharmaceuticals

• Used as a film coating, tablet binder, and controlled-release agent in drug formulations

• Safe for oral and topical use

3. Cosmetics & Personal Care

• Serves as a stabilizer and thickener in shampoos, lotions, and creams

• Non-toxic, non-irritating, and skin-friendly

4. Paints & Coatings

• Functions as a thickener, emulsifier, and leveling agent

• Enhances pigment dispersion and shelf life

5. Food Industry

• Employed as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickener (approved in many countries as a food additive)

• Acts as a fat replacement in low-calorie foods

HPMC Types & Grades

Grade	Typical Use	Viscosity Range
Construction Grade	Tile adhesives, mortars, renders	20,000–200,000 mPa·s
Pharma Grade	Tablets, capsules, controlled release	4,000–100,000 mPa·s
Cosmetic/Food Grade	Creams, lotions, emulsifiers	5,000–50,000 mPa·s

Viscosity grade selection depends on application requirements like water retention, film strength, or texture.

Is HPMC a Reducing Agent?

No. HPMC is not a reducing agent. It is chemically non-reactive and stable, making it ideal for sensitive formulations in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Is HPMC Toxic?

HPMC is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and biocompatible, which is why it is widely used in oral drug formulations and food. However:

• Inhalation of powder dust should be minimized

• Always refer to the MSDS for occupational exposure limits

Is HPMC Explosive or Flammable?

While HPMC is not explosive, as a fine organic powder, it may pose a dust explosion hazard under specific conditions. Ensure:

• Proper ventilation

• Avoidance of open flames and sparks in handling areas

• Grounding of processing equipment

HPMC vs Other Cellulose Ethers

Purity Standards

For industrial-grade use, HPMC purity is typically ≥98%. Pharmaceutical and food-grade HPMC must meet stricter standards such as:

• USP, EP, JP compliance

• ISO 9001, GMP certified production

• Kosher/Halal certification (for food/cosmetic use)

Price & Supplier Considerations

Pricing factors include:

• Viscosity grade

• Purity and moisture content

• Packaging and stabilizer use

• Source (e.g., China, India, Europe)

Choose suppliers who:

• Provide COA, TDS, MSDS

• Offer custom viscosity and particle sizes

• Have REACH, ISO, or GMP certification

• Maintain stable stock and global delivery support

How to Buy Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Powder

1. Define Requirements

• Determine application (construction, pharma, etc.)

• Choose appropriate viscosity and particle size

2. Request Documentation

• COA, MSDS, Technical Data Sheet

• Compliance certifications for your industry

3. Test Samples

• Perform lab-scale trials to confirm dispersibility, viscosity, and compatibility

4. Review Packaging

• 25kg PE-lined paper bags or jumbo bags

• Ensure moisture-resistant, sealed packing

5. Partner with Reliable Suppliers

• Choose exporters with proven QA systems and responsive customer service

Conclusion

Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Powder (HPMC) is an indispensable material in modern industries—from building materials to pharmaceuticals and food. Its unique thickening, stabilizing, and water-retention properties offer versatile performance, safety, and formulation flexibility.

To ensure the best results:

• Select the right grade and viscosity

• Work with reliable, certified suppliers

• Follow proper handling and storage procedures