Cellulose, methyl hydroxyethyl ether, commonly known as methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MHEC) or hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), is a water-soluble, nonionic cellulose ether containing methyl and hydroxyethyl substituents. This grade has an approximate molecular weight of 110,000.
Synonyms: Methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose; MHEC; hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose; HEMC; methyl 2-hydroxyethyl cellulose.
A 2% solution in water has a viscosity of 8,000 cPs. MHEC is used in aqueous systems where viscosity modification, thickening, water retention, binding, and film formation are relevant formulation properties.
Key Properties
-
Chemical type: Nonionic cellulose ether
-
Product number: 21275
-
CAS number: 9032-42-2
-
Approximate molecular weight: ~110,000
-
Viscosity: 8,000 cPs (2% solution in water)
-
Solubility: Water-soluble
-
Storage temperature: Room temperature
-
Package size: 500 g
Applications
Rheology Modification & Thickening
MHEC forms viscous aqueous solutions and is used as a cellulose-based thickener and rheology modifier. Solution viscosity depends on polymer concentration and the specific MHEC grade.
Water Retention
MHEC is used as a water-retention additive in aqueous materials systems. Its water-retention behavior has been studied extensively in cementitious formulations, including mortars and related building-material systems.
Binding & Film Formation
Methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose is also used where the binding and film-forming properties of a water-soluble cellulose ether are required.
Solubility & Compatibility
MHEC is a water-soluble, nonionic cellulose ether. Its aqueous solution behavior depends on polymer concentration, molecular weight, and substitution characteristics.
Preparation Tips
- Use a 2% aqueous solution when comparing viscosity with the 8,000 cPs value for this grade
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature
- Keep cool and store in a well-ventilated location
- Ensure good ventilation during handling
- Wear protective gloves, safety glasses, and suitable protective clothing
Why Choose Polysciences?
Trusted by 6,000+ Researchers Worldwide
Cited in Thousands of Peer-Reviewed Studies
U.S. Manufacturing & Global Distribution
Reliable Delivery to 40+ Countries
FAQ
Click a question to expand.
1. What is methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose?
Methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose is a water-soluble, nonionic cellulose ether containing methyl and hydroxyethyl substituents. It is commonly abbreviated MHEC.
2. Are MHEC and HEMC the same cellulose ether?
Yes. MHEC commonly refers to methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, while HEMC refers to hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose. Both names are used for cellulose ether CAS 9032-42-2.
3. What is CAS 9032-42-2?
CAS 9032-42-2 identifies methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, also called hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose or methyl 2-hydroxyethyl cellulose.
4. What is the viscosity of this MHEC grade?
This grade has a viscosity of 8,000 cPs when measured as a 2% solution in water.
5. Is methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose water-soluble?
Yes. MHEC is a water-soluble cellulose ether used in aqueous systems for functions including viscosity modification and water retention.
6. What is methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose used for?
MHEC is used as a thickening, rheology-modifying, water-retaining, binding, and film-forming cellulose ether. It has been studied extensively as a water-retention additive in cementitious and mortar formulations.
7. What package size is available?
Product 21275-500 contains 500 g. For larger quantities, use the bulk-quote option.
Safety & Documentation
Use good laboratory ventilation and appropriate personal protective equipment during handling. For complete safety and storage information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Additional polymer information is available in the Polymers Product Guide.
