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    Related: Cellulose Ether CMC CMC
    • Hydroxyethyl Cellulose CAS 9004-62-0
    • Hydroxyethyl Cellulose CAS 9004-62-0
    • Hydroxyethyl Cellulose CAS 9004-62-0

    Hydroxyethyl Cellulose CAS 9004-62-0

    Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (CAS 9004-62-0), commonly abbreviated as HEC, is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer derived from alkali cellulose, utilized primarily as a high-performance thickening agent and rheology modifier in latex paints and architectural coatings. This Cellulose hydroxyethyl ether functions by forming a pseudoplastic network in aqueous phases, providing superior biostability and color acceptance compared to standard cellulose derivatives. As a versatile 2-Hydroxyethyl cellulose ingredient, it acts as a critical protective colloid and water-retention agent in cementitious building materials and joint compounds, ensuring workability and open time. We provide this industrial polymer with competitive factory pricing to support coating manufacturing and ensure bulk supply availability for continuous production. Our facility accommodates customized specifications for viscosity ranges (from low to high) and hydration times, while every shipment is fully documented with MSDS, TDS, COA files to meet technical and regulatory standards.

    • CAS: 9004-62-0
    • Synonyms: HEC, Cellulose hydroxyethyl ether, 2-Hydroxyethyl cellulose, Hydroxyethyl ether cellulose, Hydroxyethylcellulose
    • Einecs: 618-387-5
    • Molecular Formula: C29H52O21
    • Grade: Industrial / Construction / Coating / Personal Care Grade
    • Package: 25 kg kraft paper bags with inner PE liner, jumbo bags or customized packing
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    Product Description

    Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) CAS 9004-62-0 is a non-ionic, water-soluble cellulose ether used as a thickener, rheology modifier and water retention agent in water-based paints, building materials, oilfield fluids and daily chemical products. It provides stable viscosity, excellent film-forming properties and good compatibility with most electrolytes and surfactants, making it a reliable choice for industrial and formulation use.

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    1 Physicochemical Properties
    2 Applications
    3 Storage Conditions
    4 Safety Precautions

    Physicochemical Properties

    ItemTypical Data*
    Product NameHydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC)
    CAS9004-62-0
    EinecsNot applicable (polymer)
    Physical FormFree-flowing white to off-white powder
    OdorOdorless or slight characteristic smell
    Ionic CharacterNon-ionic
    Active Content≥ 99.0% (dry basis)
    Moisture Content≤ 5.0%
    pH (1–2% aqueous solution, 25 °C)6.0 – 8.5
    Apparent Viscosity (2% solution, 25 °C)~ 3,000 – 60,000 mPa·s (depending on grade)
    Bulk Density0.30 – 0.50 g/cm³
    SolubilitySoluble in cold or hot water; insoluble in most organic solvents
    Film-formingYes, forms clear flexible films
    Thermal StabilityStable under normal processing temperatures
    Recommended pH Range in UseApprox. 4 – 11

    *The above values are typical factory specification ranges for commercial HEC; specific grades and viscosity levels can be supplied according to customer requirements.

    Applications

    1. Water-Based Paints & Coatings

    • Interior and exterior latex paints
    • Acrylic and styrene-acrylic emulsions
    • Waterproof and elastic coatings

    Key functions:

    • Provides viscosity and sag resistance
    • Improves brushability and roller spatter resistance
    • Enhances leveling and color uniformity

    2. Construction & Building Materials

    • Cement and gypsum-based plasters
    • Tile adhesives and grouts
    • Self-leveling compounds and crack fillers

    Key functions:

    • Strong water retention to improve cement hydration
    • Better workability and open time
    • Reduced shrinkage and improved bonding

    3. Oilfield Chemicals

    • Drilling fluids and completion fluids
    • Workover and fracturing fluids

    Key functions:

    • Controls fluid rheology and viscosity
    • Enhances carrying capacity for cuttings
    • Good salt tolerance and filtration control when properly formulated

    4. Household & Personal Care

    • Liquid detergents and cleaners
    • Shampoo, body wash, hand wash
    • Creams and lotions (where non-ionic thickener is preferred)

    Key functions:

    • Gentle thickening with smooth flow
    • Stabilizes emulsions and suspensions
    • Provides desirable skin-feel and product appearance

    5. Other Industrial Uses

    • Polymerization aid
    • Adhesives and binders
    • Ceramic and pigment suspension systems

    For related cellulose and polysaccharide thickener raw materials, see Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose and Xanthan Gum.

    Storage Conditions

    • Store in a cool, dry and well-ventilated warehouse.
    • Keep away from moisture, rain and direct sunlight to prevent caking or premature gel formation.
    • Maintain the packaging tightly sealed when not in use.
    • Recommended storage temperature: ≤ 30 °C, avoid proximity to heat sources.
    • Avoid long-term storage in high humidity environments.

    Safety Precautions

    Hydroxyethyl Cellulose is generally regarded as low-toxicity and safe for normal industrial handling. However, as with all fine powders and industrial chemicals, basic precautions should be followed:

    • Avoid generating excessive dust during handling, charging or mixing.
    • Use local exhaust ventilation in dusty areas.
    • Wear suitable dust masks/respirators, protective goggles and gloves during handling.
    • Avoid inhalation of dust and prolonged contact with eyes or skin.
    • In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
    • Clean up spilled material carefully (avoid dry sweeping that may create dust; vacuum or gently shovel into suitable containers).
    • Do not discharge large quantities into drains or natural water sources.

    FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

    • Q:

      What is Hydroxyethyl Cellulose CAS 9004-62-0?

      A: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, also called HEC or 2-Hydroxyethyl cellulose, is a nonionic water-soluble cellulose ether made from alkali cellulose. It is mainly used as a thickener, rheology modifier, protective colloid and water-retention agent in water-based systems.
    • Q:

      Why is the nonionic character of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose important?

      A: Because HEC carries no ionic charge, it is compatible with high-salt systems, many surfactants and latex binders. It forms clear to slightly opalescent solutions and is less likely to precipitate or destabilize formulations where charged thickeners may fail.
    • Q:

      What are the main applications of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose?

      A: Common uses include water-based latex paints, architectural coatings, adhesives, cementitious construction products, joint compounds, oilfield fluids, detergents, shampoos and lotions. It provides viscosity control, anti-sag behavior, suspension stability and water retention.
    • Q:

      Which Hydroxyethyl Cellulose specifications should be checked before ordering?

      A: Confirm the viscosity grade or molecular-weight range, moisture, ash, pH, particle size, dissolution behavior and degree of substitution. A paint-grade HEC and a personal-care-grade HEC may have different viscosity and purity requirements, so the target application should determine the selected grade.
    • Q:

      How should Hydroxyethyl Cellulose be dispersed or dissolved without lumps?

      A: Disperse HEC gradually into water with agitation, preferably using a vortex or an eductor, then allow full hydration. Avoid dumping the powder rapidly into still water, because this can form gels on the surface and block further wetting.
    • Q:

      What is the difference between Hydroxyethyl Cellulose and Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose?

      A: HEC, CAS 9004-62-0, is nonionic and often selected for high compatibility in paints, construction and personal-care formulations. Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, CAS 9004-65-3, has different substitution chemistry and thermal gelation behavior, so grade selection should follow the required rheology, water retention and application temperature.

    Ordering & Documentation

    Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.

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    Sample & Supply

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    Storage & Shipping

    Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.

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