What is HPMC used for?

1. Pharmaceuticals: HPMC is extensively used in pharmaceutical formulations as a binder, disintegrant, film-coating agent, and sustained-release matrix former in tablets, capsules, and oral liquid preparations. It helps in controlling drug release, improving drug stability, and enhancing patient compliance.
2. Construction Materials: HPMC is added to cement-based materials such as mortars, renders, grouts, and tile adhesives to improve workability, water retention, adhesion, and sag resistance. It enhances the performance and durability of these materials, making them easier to handle and apply.
3. Food Products: HPMC is used in the food industry as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in various products such as sauces, dressings, soups, dairy products, desserts, and baked goods. It helps in improving texture, consistency, and shelf stability without altering taste or odor.
4. Personal Care Products: HPMC finds application in personal care and cosmetic products such as shampoos, conditioners, body washes, lotions, creams, and gels as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and film-forming agent. It enhances the viscosity, texture, and stability of these products, providing desired sensory attributes and performance benefits.
5. Paints and Coatings: HPMC serves as a thickening agent, rheology modifier, and stabilizer in water-based paints and coatings. It helps in controlling viscosity, preventing sagging or dripping during application, and improving flow and leveling properties of the paint.
6. Adhesives: HPMC is used in various types of adhesives, including wood glues, paper adhesives, and construction adhesives, to enhance viscosity, tackiness, and bond strength. It improves the performance and durability of adhesives, ensuring strong and reliable bonds.
7. Detergents and Cleaning Products: HPMC is added to detergents and cleaning products as a thickening agent and stabilizer to improve viscosity and suspension properties. It helps in achieving the desired product consistency and performance.

Overall, HPMC plays a crucial role in a wide range of industries, contributing to the performance, functionality, and quality of various products and materials. Its versatility, biocompatibility, and non-toxic nature make it a preferred additive in numerous applications.