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China Modified Starch Ether Manufacturer

-- Steady & Reliable Manufacturer --

Brief Product Description

Modified starch ether is a chemically treated natural starch — primarily hydroxypropyl starch ether (HPS) — designed to enhance the performance of dry-mix mortar systems through improved open time, workability, and water retention at a lower cost than cellulose ethers alone. As a renewable, biodegradable additive, it supports sustainable construction chemical formulations while delivering measurable performance benefits.

Product Overview

Natural starch, derived from maize, potato, or tapioca, undergoes etherification with propylene oxide under alkaline conditions to produce hydroxypropyl starch ether. This modification breaks inter- and intra-molecular hydrogen bonds, reducing gelatinization temperature, improving cold-water solubility, and imparting better compatibility with cementitious and gypsum-based systems compared to native starch.

Our EasonZell™ HPS series is specifically engineered as a co-additive for construction applications. It acts synergistically with cellulose ethers to deliver extended open time, improved mortar cohesion, and enhanced surface smoothness. When used in wall putty and skim coat formulations, HPS contributes to improved film hardness and reduced cracking tendency after drying.

Unlike synthetic polymer additives, modified starch ether is fully biodegradable, derived from food-grade starch feedstocks, and carries a favorable environmental profile, making it an ideal choice for eco-labeled or green building product ranges.

Specification

ParameterHPS Standard GradeHPS Fine GradeTest Method
AppearanceWhite to light yellow powderWhite powderVisual
Moisture Content (%)≤ 12.0≤ 10.0ISO 712
Viscosity (10%, mPa·s)1,000 – 5,000500 – 2,000Brookfield
pH (10% slurry)5.5 – 8.05.5 – 7.5pH meter
Degree of Substitution0.05 – 0.150.08 – 0.20Titration
Ash Content (%)≤ 0.5≤ 0.3ASTM D5630
Particle Size (mesh)≥ 95% pass 80 mesh≥ 95% pass 120 meshSieve analysis

Application

  • Tile Adhesive: Co-additive with HPMC or HEMC at 0.03–0.10% to extend open time and improve mortar coverage.
  • Wall Putty & Skim Coat: Improves surface smoothness, reduces brush-mark visibility, and contributes to film hardness after drying.
  • Gypsum Board Joint Compound: Provides excellent adhesion, extended workability, and crack resistance in ready-mixed joint compounds.
  • Repair Mortar: Reduces shrinkage and improves cohesion in thin-layer concrete and masonry repair applications.
  • Self-Leveling Compounds: Controls flow and reduces surface cracking in calcium sulfate and cement-based underlayments.
  • Exterior Textured Renders: Contributes to improved surface uniformity and reduced aggregate segregation.

Standard dosage in dry-mix mortars: 0.03–0.20% by weight of dry blend. Pre-blend with other dry ingredients thoroughly before water addition. Avoid usage above 0.30% in highly demanding applications without testing, as higher levels may negatively affect pot life and setting behavior.

Advantages

  • Cost-effective performance upgrade: Reduces the required dosage of higher-cost cellulose ethers while maintaining or improving target performance.
  • Biodegradable and renewable: Derived from natural starch feedstocks; readily biodegradable with minimal ecological impact.
  • Open time synergy: Extends open time by 5–15 minutes in tile adhesive systems when combined with HPMC or HEMC.
  • Surface quality improvement: Contributes to smoothness, reduced porosity, and improved film hardness in skim coats and putties.
  • Stable in cementitious and gypsum systems: Compatible with the full range of cement and gypsum mortar chemistries.
  • Wide product range: Standard and fine particle size grades available to meet specific blending and performance requirements.
  • Environmental credentials: Supports the development of eco-labeled construction chemical products.
  • Q: What is the difference between native starch and modified starch ether?
  • A: Native starch is poorly soluble in cold water, prone to retrogradation, and incompatible with cementitious systems. Hydroxypropyl modification improves cold-water dispersibility, reduces retrogradation, and enables compatibility with cement and gypsum environments, delivering practical performance in construction applications.
  • Q: How much HPS should I add to my tile adhesive formula?
  • A: Typical dosage is 0.03–0.10% by weight of dry mix, used in combination with HPMC or HEMC. Start at 0.05%, evaluate open time and coverage, then adjust. Do not exceed 0.15% in standard C1/C2 tile adhesives without stability testing.
  • Q: Does HPS affect mortar strength development?
  • A: At standard dosages (≤0.15%), HPS has negligible impact on compressive strength. It may slightly reduce tensile adhesion pull-off strength at very high dosages, so dosage optimization testing is always recommended.
  • Q: Is modified starch ether approved for use in green building products?
  • A: Yes. HPS is biodegradable, derived from renewable resources, and is compatible with LEED, BREEAM, and other green building rating systems that consider ingredient sustainability as a scoring factor.
  • Q: Can modified starch ether be used in gypsum plaster systems?
  • A: Yes. HPS is fully compatible with calcium sulfate (gypsum) binder systems and is used in machine-applied gypsum plasters and joint compounds to extend working time and improve surface quality.
  • Q: What is the difference between the standard and fine particle size grades?
  • A: The fine grade (120 mesh) offers faster dispersion in dry-blend systems and more uniform distribution at low dosage levels. Standard grade (80 mesh) is suitable for most applications and is available at a lower cost. Fine grade is preferred for premium quality skim coats and putties.

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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 Modified Starch Ether Manufacturer Supplier and China Modified Starch Ether Manufacturer 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.