Cationic Starch (CAS 56780-58-6) is a chemically modified polysaccharide derivative carrying a positive electrical charge , functioning primarily as a wet-end additive in the papermaking industry and a sizing agent in textile processing. Produced by etherifying native corn or tapioca starch with quaternary ammonium reagents, this modified polymer exhibits a strong affinity for negatively charged cellulose fibers and fillers. It is utilized to significantly improve the retention of fines and titanium dioxide during paper sheet formation, while simultaneously enhancing internal bond strength and drainage rates. We provide professional access to this material with competitive factory pricing and the ability to meet customized specifications (varying Degree of Substitution, typically DS 0.03 to 0.045) for various manufacturing requirements. Our commitment to technical transparency ensures that every shipment is accompanied by comprehensive MSDS, TDS, COA documentation to support your quality assurance protocols, and we maintain capacity for consistent bulk supply to facilitate large-scale industrial operations. In alkaline sizing programs, Alkyl Ketene Dimer (AKD Wax) is a related paper-sizing material often evaluated with cationic starch retention support.
Cationic Starch CAS 56780-58-6
- CAS: 56780-58-6
- Synonyms: Starch 2-hydroxy-3-trimethylammonium propyl ether chloride, Cationic Starch Ether, Wet End Starch, Quaternary Ammonium Starch, Positively Charged Starch
- Grade: Technical Grade / Industrial Grade
- Package: 25kg Kraft Paper Bag (with PE liner) or 850kg Jumbo Bag.
Product Description
Physicochemical Properties (Technical Data)
The following specifications represent our standard export grade, aligned with major large-scale manufacturing standards in China.
| Property | Specification | Method/Note |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white free-flowing powder | Visual Inspection |
| Whiteness | ≥88% | Whiteness Meter |
| Moisture Content | ≤14.0% | Drying at 105°C |
| Ash Content | ≤1.5% | Gravimetric Method |
| pH Value (1% Solution) | 5.0 – 8.0 | pH Meter |
| Degree of Substitution (D.S.) | 0.020 – 0.050 | Customizable upon request |
| Viscosity | 5 – 100 mPa.s | Brookfield (Based on concentration) |
| Solubility | Soluble in hot water; gelatinizes upon heating | – |
| Nitrogen Content | 0.15% – 0.50% | Kjeldahl Method |
Applications
Cationic Starch serves as a critical additive across various industrial sectors due to its binding and flocculating capabilities:
1. Paper & Pulp Industry (Primary Application):
- Wet-End Additive: Acts as a retention and drainage aid. Its positive charge neutralizes anionic trash and binds fines/fillers to the fibers, increasing the “First Pass Retention” (FPR).
- Surface Sizing: Improves surface strength, printability, and reduces dusting/linting during high-speed printing.
- Internal Sizing: Enhances the internal bond strength (Scott Bond) of the paper sheet.
2. Textile Industry:
- Used as a warp sizing agent for cotton and synthetic blends. It forms a tough, flexible film that protects yarns during weaving, reducing breakage and shedding.
3. Water Treatment & Flocculation:
- Functions as an efficient polymeric flocculant for industrial wastewater treatment. It effectively captures suspended solids and sludge through charge neutralization and bridging mechanisms.
4. Drilling Fluids:
- Acts as a viscosifier and fluid loss control agent in water-based drilling muds, stabilizing shale formations.
Quality Assurance (QA/QC)
At Industrochem, quality is not just a promise; it is a rigorous protocol. Our manufacturing facilities operate under ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems.
- Raw Material Control: We utilize only high-purity native corn or tapioca starch bases to ensure consistency.
- Process Monitoring: The cationization process is monitored in real-time to ensure uniform distribution of quaternary ammonium groups.
- Lab Testing: Every batch undergoes strict testing before shipment, including:
- Degree of Substitution (D.S.) Analysis: To verify cationic charge density.
- Viscosity Testing: Utilizing Brookfield viscometers to ensure flow consistency.
- Microbiological Analysis: Ensuring the product is free from contamination for sensitive applications.
- Third-Party Inspection: We welcome SGS, BV, or Intertek inspections upon customer request.
For other paper wet-end additives, see Polyamide Epichlorohydrin (PAE) and Alkyl Ketene Dimer (AKD Wax).
Storage, Handling & Safety
Storage Conditions:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. Cationic starch is hygroscopic; exposure to high humidity may cause caking.
- Shelf Life: 24 months from the date of manufacture under proper storage conditions.
Safety Precautions (HSE):
- Dust Hazard: Like all fine organic powders, combustible dust concentrations may form in the air. Ensure proper grounding of equipment to prevent static discharge.
- PPE Recommendations:
- Respiratory: Wear a NIOSH/MSHA-approved dust mask (N95) to prevent inhalation of fine particles.
- Eyes: Wear safety goggles with side shields.
- Skin: Wear standard industrial protective gloves and clothing.
- Spill Management: Sweep up dry spills carefully to avoid creating dust clouds. If wet, the surface will become extremely slippery; flush with ample water.
Ready to optimize your production with high-quality Cationic Starch?
Contact our technical sales team for current pricing and sample availability.
👉 Inquire Now: info@industrochem.com
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Cationic Starch CAS 56780-58-6?
A: Cationic Starch is starch modified with a 2-hydroxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propyl ether group, giving the polymer a positive charge. It is supplied as a white to off-white free-flowing powder and is mainly used in papermaking and industrial flocculation. -
Q:
Why is Degree of Substitution important when selecting Cationic Starch?
A: Degree of Substitution measures the number of cationic groups per glucose unit and therefore the charge density. Lower DS values are often sufficient for linerboard, while higher DS values improve retention and drainage on high-speed machines with high filler content. -
Q:
Does Cationic Starch need to be cooked before use?
A: Yes. The granular starch is insoluble in cold water and must be cooked or jet-cooked, typically around 95-105 C, to gelatinize and unravel the polymer chains. This exposes the cationic groups so they can interact effectively with fibers and fines. -
Q:
What functions does Cationic Starch perform in papermaking?
A: In the wet end it acts as a retention and drainage aid, neutralizing anionic trash and binding fines and fillers to fibers. In surface sizing and internal sizing it improves surface strength, printability, and resistance to dusting or linting. -
Q:
Can Cationic Starch CAS 56780-58-6 be used outside papermaking?
A: Yes. Its positive charge makes it useful as a flocculant for sludge dewatering and clarification, and it can be applied in textile sizing or as a cationic binder. The optimum grade, DS, and dosage depend on the substrate, charge demand, and process conditions.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.




