Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC)

Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), CAS 9004-62-0, is a nonionic, water-soluble cellulose ether supplied as a white to pale yellow powder. It is used to control viscosity, improve suspension stability and retain water in aqueous formulations.

Common applications include water-based paints, household and personal care products, construction materials and oilfield fluids. Grade selection depends on the required viscosity, dissolution behavior and application conditions.

Brand:
aozun
Synonym:
Hydroxyethyl cellulose ether
Appearance:
White or light yellow, odorless and non-toxic fibrous or powdery solid
CAS No.:
9004-62-0
Molecular Formula:
C2H6O2·x
EINECS:
618-387-5
Solubility:
Soluble in water

Availability:



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Product Description

Product Description

Key Specifications

Item	Specification
Product Name	Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC)
CAS Number	9004-62-0
EC / List Number	618-387-5
Appearance	White to pale yellow powder
Ionic Type	Nonionic
Solubility	Soluble in cold and hot water
Viscosity	Grade-dependent; refer to the selected grade’s TDS

Core Advantages

Thickening and Flow Control: Adjusts viscosity and flow behavior in water-based formulations.
Suspension Stability: Helps keep dispersed particles evenly distributed.
Water Retention: Helps reduce water loss during application.
Nonionic Compatibility: Compatible with many surfactants and formulation ingredients; compatibility should be checked in the final formulation.

Application Fields

Key HEC application scenarios:

1. Petroleum Drilling Industry

Used as a viscosifier in selected water-based drilling and completion fluids.
Helps suspend solids and adjust fluid rheology; select an oilfield grade for the intended operating conditions.

2. Coatings & Inks Industry

Used as a thickener and rheology modifier in water-based paints and inks.
Helps control application viscosity and pigment suspension, with flow and leveling depending on the selected grade and formulation.

3. Construction Industry

Used in selected putty, mortar and gypsum formulations to support water retention and workability.
Grade selection and dosage should be evaluated with the binder system and required application performance.

4. Daily Chemical Industry

Suitable grades are used to adjust viscosity and texture in shampoos, body washes, creams and lotions.
Confirm compatibility with the surfactant system and the quality requirements of the finished product.

5. Other Industries

Used in selected textile and paper formulations for viscosity control and binding.
Acts as a protective colloid in suitable polymerization systems.

Safety and Storage

Safe Handling: Avoid generating or inhaling dust. Provide adequate ventilation and wear suitable protective gloves and safety glasses. Keep powder and dust away from ignition sources. Follow the supplied grade’s SDS for detailed precautions.

Storage: Keep packaging tightly closed and protect from moisture. Store in a dry place, away from strong oxidizing agents. Follow the supplier’s recommended storage conditions and shelf life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common questions about HEC CAS 9004-62-0:

Q1: How do I select the right HEC grade?

Choose according to the application, required viscosity and dissolution behavior. Compare viscosity values only when the test concentration, temperature and measurement method are consistent.

Q2: How can I dissolve HEC without lumps?

Slowly disperse the powder into water under effective agitation. Hydration conditions vary between untreated and surface-treated grades, so follow the selected grade’s technical instructions.

Q3: Can this HEC be used in food or pharmaceutical products?

Suitability depends on the supplied grade and its supporting documentation. Industrial HEC should not be assumed suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications.