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China Hydroxyethyl Methylcellulose

-- Steady & Reliable Manufacturer --

Brief Product Description

Hydroxyethyl Methylcellulose (HEMC) is a non-ionic mixed cellulose ether combining both hydroxyethyl and methyl substituents. It offers outstanding water retention, excellent workability in cementitious systems, and superior resistance to biological degradation compared to HEC. HEMC is particularly valued in building material applications where long open time, reduced sagging, and consistent performance in hot climates are essential.

Product Overview

HEMC is synthesized through alkaline etherification of cellulose with methyl chloride and ethylene oxide, introducing two types of ether groups that together deliver a balance of thermal gelation, hydration control, and biostability superior to single-substituent cellulose ethers.

Our EASONZELL™ ME series covers both Building Material Grade and Coating Grade formulations. The building material grades are optimized for demanding dry-mix mortar applications, where water retention, open time, and anti-sag performance are critical in both cold and hot climates. The coating grade is engineered for water-based paint systems requiring smooth flow, excellent leveling, and compatibility with associative thickeners.

HEMC exhibits a somewhat higher gel temperature than comparable HPMC grades, providing better performance stability in tropical or summer construction environments. It also demonstrates improved resistance to enzyme-catalyzed degradation, extending the functional life of formulated products.

Specification

ParameterBuilding Material GradeCoating Grade
AppearanceWhite to cream powderWhite powder
Viscosity (2%, mPa·s)5,000 – 200,000100 – 60,000
Methoxy Content (%)19.0 – 26.019.0 – 26.0
Hydroxyethoxy Content (%)3.5 – 10.03.5 – 8.0
Moisture (%)≤ 5.0≤ 5.0
pH (1% solution)6.5 – 8.56.0 – 8.5
Gel Temperature (°C)65 – 9065 – 90
Ash Content (%)≤ 5.0≤ 3.0

Application

  • Tile Adhesives (C1/C2/C2TE): Provides long open time, high slip resistance, and reliable adhesion on ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone.
  • Machine-Applied Gypsum Plasters: Controls rheology during spray application, prevents sagging, and extends workability window.
  • Self-Compacting Mortars: Adjusts yield stress and viscosity to ensure uniform distribution without segregation.
  • EIFS Base Coats: Improves adhesion to EPS/mineral wool boards and resistance to temperature cycling.
  • Water-Based Decorative Coatings: Enhances leveling, reduces spattering during roller application, and improves film uniformity.
  • Joint Fillers & Skim Coats: Extends working time, reduces shrinkage cracking, and improves surface finish.

Typical dosage: 0.25–0.60% for construction applications; 0.1–0.5% in coatings. HEMC building material grades are available in both standard and surface-treated (delayed dissolution) versions for hot-process mixing lines.

Advantages

  • Enhanced biostability: More resistant to cellulase enzyme degradation than HEC, extending product shelf life.
  • Higher gel temperature: Performs better than HPMC in hot climates, maintaining viscosity stability above 65°C.
  • Excellent water retention: Retains moisture in mortars even under direct sunlight or windy conditions.
  • Improved open time: Extends tile adhesive working time, reducing waste and labor costs on large tile installations.
  • Dual functionality: Single product line covers both mortar and coating applications.
  • Compatibility: Works well with redispersible polymer powders (RDP), starch ethers, and air-entraining agents in complex mortar formulas.
  • Surface treatment options: Delayed hydration grades available for hot-climate or spray-applied mortar applications.
  • Q: How does HEMC differ from HPMC in tile adhesives?
  • A: HEMC typically offers a slightly higher gel temperature and better enzyme resistance than HPMC. In tropical climates, HEMC maintains better open time and workability under high ambient temperatures. HPMC remains the standard choice in temperate climates.
  • Q: What is the recommended viscosity for machine-applied gypsum plaster?
  • A: For spray-applied gypsum, medium-viscosity HEMC grades (20,000–40,000 mPa·s) are commonly used, providing good pump ability and sufficient sag resistance on vertical surfaces after application.
  • Q: Can HEMC replace HPMC directly in existing formulations?
  • A: Generally yes, on a 1:1 weight basis, though minor dosage adjustments may be needed due to differences in water retention and gel temperature. We recommend running comparison trials with our technical support team.
  • Q: Is HEMC compatible with RDP (redispersible polymer powder)?
  • A: Yes. HEMC and RDP are fully compatible and are commonly co-used in premium tile adhesive and EIFS formulations to combine excellent water retention with enhanced flexibility and adhesion.
  • Q: What packaging options are available?
  • A: Standard packaging is 25 kg multi-layer kraft bags with PE inner liner. Jumbo bags (500 kg or 1,000 kg) are available for high-volume customers. Custom packaging can be arranged upon request.
  • Q: Does HEMC require special handling?
  • A: HEMC is non-hazardous. Standard dust-control measures during handling are recommended. Avoid inhalation of fine dust and store away from moisture and heat sources.

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About Us
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd. is a professional enterprise engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, application, and sales of cellulose ether, located in the Shangyu Economic and Technological Development Zone, part of the Hangzhou Bay National Industrial Park. With a core concept of safety, environmental protection, and sustainable development, the company boasts an annual production capacity of 15,000 tons of cellulose ether, offering a complete range of products including HEC (hydroxyethylcellulose), HEMC (hydroxyethyl methylcellulose), and HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose). Our products serve various sectors such as oil fields, coatings, dry powder mortar, cosmetics, personal care products, medicine, and many others. Yisheng has a global presence, providing stable cellulose ethers and services to customers worldwide.
As a professional China China Hydroxyethyl Methylcellulose Supplier and China Hydroxyethyl Methylcellulose Company, The company adheres to the principles of safety and environmental protection as the foundation of its development. It implements and further consolidates safety and environmental protection measures, striving to create green and environmentally friendly production processes, safe and effective control systems, and orderly production management. This approach lays a solid foundation for the company's sustainable development. Yisheng boasts a scientific management mechanism, a comprehensive quality management system, stringent product testing methods, advanced technology, state-of-the-art equipment, and high-quality after-sales service.
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.

+86-18067879812
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.

sarah@ys-cellulose.com
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.