Product Description
Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose (HEMC), also known as Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC), is a non-ionic cellulose ether derived from cellulose through chemical modification. Supplied as a fine powder, HEMC offers versatile functional properties for a wide range of construction material formulations.
With its effective water retention and thickening properties, HEMC helps improve the workability, consistency, and application performance of cement- and gypsum-based materials. It can also contribute to better substrate contact and bonding performance when incorporated into suitable formulations. These characteristics make HEMC a widely used functional additive in dry-mix mortars, tile adhesives, skim coats, and other construction products.
Product Parameters
| Density | 1.28-1.30 g/cm3 (20℃) |
| Bulk density | 350kg/m3 |
| Storage temp. | Store below +30°C. |
| Solubility | H2O: 20 mg/mL, soluble |
| Form | powder |
| Color | white to faint beige |
| Water Solubility | H2O: soluble 20mg/mL |
| EPA Substance Registry System | Cellulose, 2-hydroxyethyl methyl ether (9032-42-2) |
| WGK Germany | 1 |
| Autoignition Temperature | >360 °C |
| HS Code | 3912 39 85 |
| Toxicity | LD50 orally in Rabbit: > 2000 mg/kg |
Application Scenarios
Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose (HEMC), also known as Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC), is a non-ionic cellulose ether typically manufactured from cellulose sources such as wood pulp or purified cotton through chemical modification. It is commonly supplied as a white to off-white, odorless powder and is valued for its water retention, thickening, and workability-enhancing properties.
HEMC is widely used as a functional additive in construction materials, helping improve consistency, water retention, and application performance. Its major applications include:
Tile Adhesives: Helps improve workability, water retention, and open-time performance in suitable formulations.
Dry-Mix Mortars: Enhances consistency, water retention, and ease of application.
Joint Fillers and Grouts: Supports workability and helps maintain a uniform consistency during application.
Wall Putty and Skim Coats: Improves spreadability, water retention, and surface application properties.
Self-Leveling Compounds: Helps regulate rheological properties and formulation stability, depending on the grade and dosage.
Gypsum Plasters: Supports water retention, consistency, and application performance.
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS): Helps improve the workability and water retention of compatible basecoat and finishing formulations.
The appropriate HEMC grade and dosage depend on the specific construction application, formulation design, and required performance characteristics.
