Hydroxypropyl starch ether (HPS) is a non-ionic starch derivative produced by the hydroxypropylation modification of natural starch. It has good water solubility, high stability, and strong thickening ability, and is widely used in building materials, papermaking, food, and personal care products.
1. Main Characteristics of HPS
Hydroxypropyl starch ether has the following characteristics:
Excellent water solubility: It dissolves quickly in cold or hot water, forming a transparent or translucent viscous solution.
Good thickening ability: A small amount can significantly increase the viscosity of the solution.
Strong acid and alkali resistance: Stable in weak acid and weak alkaline environments, suitable for various systems.
Improved rheological properties: It can adjust the fluidity and thixotropy of the solution, facilitating construction and processing.
Non-toxic and environmentally friendly: Non-ionic, low irritation, and high safety.
2. Main Application Areas of HPS
HPS has a wide range of applications in various industries, mainly including:
| Application Industry |
Function & Effect |
| Construction Industry |
Used as a thickener and water retention agent in mortar, putty, and tile adhesive, improving workability and anti-sagging performance |
| Paper Industry |
Enhances paper surface smoothness and tensile strength, improving printability |
| Food Industry |
Acts as a thickener, stabilizer, and texture improver in dairy products, sauces, and baked goods |
| Personal Care |
Thickens and stabilizes emulsions and gels, enhancing the texture and feel of skincare and cleansing products |
| Other Industries |
Used as an adhesive, coating additive, and textile finishing agent to improve adhesion and processing performance |
3. How to Use HPS and Precautions
Dissolution Method: Sprinkle the HPS powder evenly into stirred water, avoiding clumping. It is recommended to first prepare a slurry before adding it to the main system to improve dissolution efficiency.
Dosage Control: Control the HPS addition amount appropriately based on the desired viscosity and rheological properties, generally within the range of 0.5% to 3%.
Storage Conditions: Store in a dry, well-ventilated, and cool place, avoiding moisture and high temperatures to prevent clumping or degradation.
Compatibility: HPS is compatible with most non-ionic, anionic, and weakly acidic systems, but viscosity may decrease in strong acid, strong alkali, or high-salt environments.
4. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Can HPS be used in high-temperature environments?
A1: HPS is stable when heated for short periods, but prolonged high temperatures may reduce its thickening ability. It is recommended to choose a suitable grade based on the operating temperature.
Q2: Is HPS food safe?
A2: HPS is a non-ionic starch derivative, safe and non-toxic, and can be used as a food thickener, but it must comply with relevant food regulations and dosage requirements.
Q3: How to adjust the viscosity of HPS solution?
A3: Viscosity can be adjusted by increasing the concentration or selecting HPS with different degrees of substitution (DS value). Temperature and stirring speed also affect the final result.
Q4: Can HPS be mixed with other cellulose derivatives?
A4: Yes, HPS is compatible with non-ionic cellulose derivatives such as HPMC and HEC, and performance can be adjusted according to formula requirements.
Q5: How to prevent HPS from clumping?
A5: It is recommended to store in a dry place and use it as soon as possible after opening the bag; rapid stirring during dissolution and preparing a slurry before adding it to the main system can effectively prevent clumping.