Cellulose Ethers

HEC — Hydroxyethyl Cellulose

A nonionic, water-soluble cellulose ether delivering excellent thickening, rheology control, and water retention. Typical applications include paints & coatings, construction mortars, and oilfield drilling fluids.

Strong thickening & flow control; good workability
Excellent water retention; easy dispersion (surface-treated grades)
Protective colloid; good pigment compatibility & storage stability
Grades for coatings, mortars, and oilfield drilling
CAS No.: 9004-62-0 Viscosity (typ.): 30,000–100,000 mPa·s MS (Molar Substitution): 1.8–2.0 pH (1% sol.): 6.0–8.5
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) powder sample

Core Specifications

HEC (Hydroxyethyl Cellulose) is a nonionic, water-soluble cellulose ether. Below are the typical specifications.

AppearanceWhite powder

Free-flowing; odorless, dissolves in water.

Visual
Viscosity300 – 200,000 cps

Common grades: 30,000 – 100,000 mPa·s (2% sol., Brookfield @20°C).

Rheology
Moisture≤ 5%

Loss on drying.

Shelf stable
Ash Content≤ 5%

Residue after ignition.

Quality control
Water Insoluble≤ 0.5%

Ensures good solubility in water.

Solubility
pH (1% sol.)6.0 – 8.5

Stable in neutral range.

Neutral
Molar Substitution (MS)1.8 – 2.0

Average substitution per glucose unit.

Structural index
Shelf Life2 – 3 years

Store in cool, dry place.

Storage
Package25 kg/bag

LDPE inner + HDPE outer bag.

Export ready
HEC in paints and coatings

Paints & Coatings

Provides thickening, pigment compatibility, and storage stability in emulsion and stone paints.

HEC in construction mortars

Construction Mortars

Improves water retention, workability, and adhesion in tile adhesives, putty, and EIFS mortars.

HEC in oilfield drilling fluids

Oilfield Drilling

Acts as thickener and fluid-loss controller in drilling muds, improving suspension and borehole stability.

Trusted Supply • Easy Contact

All HEC products are from certified partner factories with COA per batch. Focus on your project — we take care of compliance and logistics. Reach out anytime for fast support.

Why Work With Us?

Certified partner factories • COA with every batch • Flexible shipping • Responsive support

FAQ

What is the MOQ and lead time?

MOQ is 1 ton. Typical lead time is 7–15 days depending on stock and port schedule.

Do you provide certificates and testing?

Each batch is supplied with a COA (Certificate of Analysis). Additional documents such as MSDS, TDS or other compliance certificates can be provided when available. For special requests, third-party inspection or testing can be arranged, with the inspection fee borne by the buyer.

Which payment terms do you accept?

T/T, L/C, and flexible options for long-term clients. Please confirm details during inquiry.