Cellulose, hydroxyethyl ether (MW 1,000,000) is a water-soluble cellulose derivative supplied for formulation, rheology modification, coating, adhesive, and materials research applications. This nonionic cellulose ether is commonly used where viscosity control, film formation, binding, and water retention are important formulation properties.
Synonyms: Hydroxyethyl cellulose; HEC; cellulose hydroxyethyl ether; nonionic cellulose ether.
This hydroxyethyl cellulose grade is supplied as a powder with a molecular weight of 1,000,000. It may be evaluated in aqueous and water-compatible systems where a high-molecular-weight cellulose-based thickener, stabilizer, or binder is required.
Researchers and formulators commonly use hydroxyethyl cellulose in laboratory workflows involving aqueous polymer systems, coatings, adhesives, construction-material additives, binders, and specialty formulation development.
Key Properties
- Water-soluble nonionic cellulose ether
- CAS #: 9004-62-0
- Molecular weight: 1,000,000
- Appearance: powder
- pH of 1% solution: 6.0 - 8.5
- Brookfield viscosity specification: 1500.00 - 2500.00
- Loss on drying: ≤ 5.0%
- Ash content: ≤ 0.20 wt%
Applications
Rheology Modification
Hydroxyethyl cellulose is used in formulation research where viscosity control, thickening, and flow behavior are important performance variables.
Coatings & Films
This cellulose ether may be evaluated in coating and film-forming systems where water retention, film formation, and formulation stability are required.
Adhesives & Binders
Cellulose, hydroxyethyl ether can be used in adhesive and binder research where polymer structure, viscosity, and adhesion-related properties are under evaluation.
Construction Material Additives
Hydroxyethyl cellulose is commonly studied in cementitious, mortar, plaster, and tile adhesive systems where workability and water retention are key formulation factors.
Aqueous Polymer Systems
This high-molecular-weight HEC grade is suitable for laboratory development work involving water-soluble polymers, stabilizers, and cellulose-derived formulation additives.
Solubility & Compatibility
- Designed for use in water-soluble cellulose polymer systems
- Useful for aqueous formulations requiring viscosity control or binding performance
- Compatibility depends on concentration, hydration method, additives, pH, and processing conditions
- Bench-scale testing is recommended before scale-up or final formulation use
Final formulation performance depends on polymer concentration, mixing conditions, hydration time, additive package, and the full formulation system.
Preparation Tips
- Add gradually with mixing to support uniform wetting and minimize clumping
- Allow adequate hydration time before evaluating final viscosity
- Adjust mixing speed and addition rate based on target concentration and batch size
- Evaluate pH, viscosity, clarity, and compatibility under intended use conditions
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature
- Use gloves and a fume hood
- Handle as an irritant
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use
- Follow standard laboratory chemical handling procedures
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FAQ
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1. What is Cellulose, hydroxyethyl ether (MW 1,000,000) used for?
It is used in formulation research involving rheology modification, aqueous polymer systems, coatings, films, adhesives, binders, and construction-material additives.
2. Is hydroxyethyl cellulose water soluble?
Yes. Hydroxyethyl cellulose is a water-soluble cellulose ether commonly used in aqueous formulation systems.
3. What is the molecular weight of this product?
This product has a listed molecular weight of 1,000,000.
4. What is the pH specification for a 1% solution?
The pH specification for a 1% solution is 6.0 - 8.5.
5. How should this product be handled and stored?
Store at room temperature. Use gloves and a fume hood when handling this irritant material.
Safety & Documentation
This product is listed as an irritant. Use gloves, a fume hood, and standard laboratory chemical handling procedures. Refer to the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and product specifications for complete handling, storage, and safety guidance.
