How does MHEC differ from HPMC?

Both are non-ionic cellulose ethers, but MHEC contains hydroxyethyl substitution while HPMC contains hydroxypropyl substitution. Their dissolution, thermal-gelation and mortar behaviour can differ, so the finished formulation should determine the grade selection.

Which data are needed to compare MHEC grades?

Compare viscosity at the same solution concentration and test method, then review water retention, particle treatment, moisture, dissolution time and the target dry-mix formulation. A viscosity number without the test conditions is not enough for a reliable comparison.

Is one MHEC grade suitable for all mortar products?

No. Tile adhesive, skim coat, gypsum plaster, cement render and waterborne coatings can require different viscosity and dissolution profiles. The product should be screened in the intended formulation before a grade is fixed.

Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC) CAS 9032-42-2

Methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MHEC), also called HEMC, CAS 9032-42-2, is a non-ionic cellulose ether for dry-mix mortar, tile adhesive, plaster and waterborne coatings. Construction grades are defined by viscosity and dissolution profile, with COA, TDS and SDS for the agreed product.

CAS: 9032-42-2
Synonyms: Methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose; Hydroxyethyl methylcellulose; MHEC; HEMC
Einecs: Not specified (cellulose ether polymer)
Molecular Formula: Not specified (cellulose ether polymer)
Grade: Construction grade; viscosity, substitution and dissolution profile specified by formulation
Package: Moisture-protected 25 kg bags; pallet and liner configuration confirmed for the destination
Appearance: White to off-white powder
Ionic type: Non-ionic cellulose ether
Viscosity: Selected by grade, solution concentration and test method
Key performance inputs: Water retention, dissolution profile, rheology and workability
Moisture and particle form: Confirmed against the agreed construction grade

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Product Description

Methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MHEC/HEMC, CAS 9032-42-2) is a non-ionic cellulose ether used as a rheology and water-retention additive. In dry-mix construction products, the relevant grade is defined by the formulation target, not simply by the polymer name: viscosity measurement method, substitution profile, particle treatment and dissolution behaviour all affect the final mortar.

1 Applications

2 Specification points

3 Commercial form

Applications

Tile adhesives, cementitious skim coats and wall putties that require controlled workability and water retention.
Cement and gypsum plasters, renders and repair mortars where open time and trowelling response matter.
EIFS/ETICS and masonry-mortar formulations that use cellulose ether as a functional additive.
Waterborne paint and coating systems requiring thickening, suspension or application-rheology control.

Specification points

State the target formulation, viscosity method and concentration, water-retention target, particle-size or surface-treatment requirement, moisture limit and dissolution expectation. HPMC and HEC are related cellulose ethers, but their substitution chemistry and best-fit formulation behaviour differ.

Commercial form

MHEC is normally supplied as a dry powder. Storage should keep the material sealed and dry so that free-flow, dissolution and viscosity are maintained until use.

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

Q:
How does MHEC differ from HPMC?

A: Both are non-ionic cellulose ethers, but MHEC contains hydroxyethyl substitution while HPMC contains hydroxypropyl substitution. Their dissolution, thermal-gelation and mortar behaviour can differ, so the finished formulation should determine the grade selection.
Q:
Which data are needed to compare MHEC grades?

A: Compare viscosity at the same solution concentration and test method, then review water retention, particle treatment, moisture, dissolution time and the target dry-mix formulation. A viscosity number without the test conditions is not enough for a reliable comparison.
Q:
Is one MHEC grade suitable for all mortar products?

A: No. Tile adhesive, skim coat, gypsum plaster, cement render and waterborne coatings can require different viscosity and dissolution profiles. The product should be screened in the intended formulation before a grade is fixed.

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.

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