Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Supplier - Nutri Avenue

What Is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose?

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a semi-synthetic, inert polymer derived from cellulose, widely used as a thickener, emulsifier, film-former, and controlled-release agent in pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics. It has the molecular formula C56H108O30 and a molecular weight 1,261.45 g/mol. The CAS number for it is -65-3. HPMC appears as a white to off-white powder or granules in its pure form.

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Depending on the concentration, it can form a gel-like or viscous solution in water and several organic solvents, including ethanol and methanol. Because HPMC is non-toxic, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic, it is frequently utilized in vegetarian capsule shells, ophthalmic solutions, and pharmaceutical tablet coatings. A versatile ingredient in many different industries, it is also a stabilizer in culinary products and a binding agent in various industrial applications.

NOTE: Nutri Avenue supplies premium Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), a versatile pharmaceutical-grade excipient and nutraceutical delivery agent, to manufacturers worldwide. We provide this multifunctional cellulose ether in bulk quantities (25kg, 50kg, 100kg+ options) with various viscosity grades (E5-E), competitive pricing, and reliable global logistics – ideal for your tablet coatings, capsule formulations, sustained-release matrices, and plant-based food applications.

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Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose, widely used in pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial applications due to its thickening, emulsifying, and film-forming properties. The synthesis of HPMC involves chemical modification of cellulose using specific reagents. Below are the key raw materials used in its production:

1. Cellulose – The primary raw material, typically sourced from wood pulp or cotton linters. It provides the backbone structure for HPMC and undergoes chemical modifications to improve water solubility and functional properties.
2. Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) – Used in the alkalization process to swell the cellulose fibers, making them more reactive for further modification. This step facilitates the substitution reactions required to introduce hydroxypropyl and methyl groups.
3. Methyl Chloride (CH₃Cl) – Acts as the methylating agent, replacing hydroxyl (-OH) groups in cellulose with methoxy (-OCH₃) groups. This modification improves solubility and thermal stability.
4. Propylene Oxide (C₃H₆O) – Used to introduce hydroxypropyl (-OCH₂CHOHCH₃) groups, enhancing water retention, gel formation, and flexibility. The degree of substitution influences the viscosity and functional properties of the final HPMC product.
5. Solvents (Methanol, Isopropanol, or Acetone) – Utilized as reaction media to facilitate the chemical modifications and control reaction kinetics. These solvents are later removed through purification processes.
6. Acidic or Neutralizing Agents – After synthesis, acids or neutralizing agents like acetic acid may be used to adjust pH levels and remove excess alkali residues.

The synthesis process involves alkalization, etherification, and purification steps, yielding high-purity HPMC powder suitable for use in pharmaceutical excipients, food stabilizers, coatings, adhesives, and personal care products.

What Does Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Do?

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose operates through multiple physicochemical mechanisms based on its unique polymeric structure and functional groups. When companies buy hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, they acquire a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose through methylation and hydroxypropylation processes. This chemical modification creates a compound with hydrophilic and hydrophobic portions, giving it amphiphilic properties. The methoxy groups provide hydrophobicity, while hydroxypropyl substitutions enhance water affinity, creating a versatile polymer with remarkable functional versatility.

In aqueous environments, it demonstrates sophisticated hydration and gel-formation mechanisms. Upon contact with water, the polymer undergoes sequential hydration, where water molecules initially interact with hydrophilic hydroxypropyl groups, forming hydrogen bonds. This interaction causes the polymer chains to uncoil and swell, creating a hydrated gel layer. The rate and extent of this hydration process in hydroxypropyl methylcellulose depend on the substitution pattern, molecular Weight, and concentration, allowing for tailored performance in various applications.

The controlled-release properties of it in pharmaceutical applications involve a complex interplay of polymer relaxation and erosion mechanisms. When manufacturers buy for drug delivery systems, they utilize its ability to form a hydrated gel barrier around tablet cores as water penetrates the matrix, a concentration gradient forms with complete hydration at the outer surface and decreasing hydration toward the core. This creates a diffusion pathway that modulates drug release kinetics. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6 grade controls these release dynamics with its specific viscosity profile.

The solution demonstrates non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic flow behavior with significant viscoelastic properties. The polymer chains form temporary network structures through hydrogen bonding and physical entanglements. Under applied shear forces, these networks temporarily align and disentangle, reducing viscosity (shear-thinning), but they rapidly recover when the force is removed. This reversible behavior makes hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6 particularly valuable for applications requiring specific rheological control. The temperature-responsive gelation mechanism, where the polymer undergoes sol-gel transition at specific temperatures, further enhances its functional versatility across industrial applications.

How to Produce Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Powder?

1. Initial Raw Material Processing: The production begins with high-quality cellulose pulp, typically derived from cotton linters or wood pulp. These raw materials undergo rigorous quality testing before processing. When manufacturers buy production equipment, they ensure these initial materials meet strict purity specifications, with controlled fiber length and crystallinity to optimize the subsequent chemical modifications.
2. Alkalization: The crucial alkalization phase treats the cellulose with sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) under carefully controlled conditions. This step disrupts hydrogen bonding within the cellulose structure, making it receptive to subsequent etherification reactions. For specialized grades like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6, precise temperature, concentration, and reaction time monitoring ensures optimal activation without cellulose backbone degradation.
3. Etherification: The production of it continues with the critical etherification step, where the alkalized cellulose reacts simultaneously with methyl chloride and propylene oxide. This dual modification process requires precise control of reagent ratios and reaction conditions. The degree of substitution with methoxy and hydroxypropoxy groups determines key properties of the final product, particularly for specialized grades like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6.
4. Neutralization: The etherified cellulose undergoes careful neutralization to halt the reaction and stabilize the product. This phase requires precise pH control to neutralize excess alkali while maintaining the integrity of the newly formed ether linkages. Companies that buy manufacturing capacity recognize this step as critical for ensuring product stability and consistent performance.
5. Purification: The crude product undergoes multiple purification steps, including washing to remove reaction byproducts and residual reagents. These steps ensure the removal of salts, unreacted materials, and other impurities. For pharmaceutical-grade products, including hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6, additional purification steps may be implemented to meet stringent regulatory requirements.
6. Drying and Milling: The purified product undergoes controlled drying to achieve the optimal moisture content. Precision milling operations follow this to achieve target particle size distributions. This phase requires careful control to maintain proper size distribution while preserving the polymer’s molecular Weight, which is particularly crucial for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6 with its specific viscosity requirements.
7. Blending and Standardization: The milled hydroxypropyl methylcellulose undergoes carefully controlled blending to ensure batch-to-batch consistency. Additional standardization steps may be implemented for specialized grades like e6 to achieve precise viscosity specifications and functional performance characteristics.
8. Quality Control: The final hydroxypropyl methylcellulose undergoes comprehensive quality testing at multiple stages. This includes viscosity analysis at defined concentrations and temperatures, substitution degree verification, moisture content analysis, and particle size distribution. Additional testing monitors heavy metal content, microbial limits, and thermal gelation temperature. For pharmaceutical applications, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6 undergoes additional tests to ensure compliance with pharmacopeial standards. Manufacturers who buy hydroxypropyl methylcellulose can expect certificates of analysis documenting these quality parameters.

Specification Sheet Reference

PropertyDetailsTypeSupplement IngredientAppearanceWhite to off-white powderPurity≥ 99%CAS Number-65-3Molecular FormulaC8H15O8-(C10H18O7)nMolecular Weight1,261.45 g/molSolubilitySoluble in waterTest MethodsHPLC, FTIR, UV-VisCertificationsISO available. Please contact sales team.MOQs25 kgSample AvailabilityAvailable (10-20g/bag)OEM ServiceAvailableODM ServiceAvailablePrivate LabelAvailableContract ManufacturingAvailable

HPMC Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose: Benefits, Side Effects, and More

• Pharmaceutical Applications and Controlled Release Research published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences () demonstrates that hydroxypropyl methylcellulose provides exceptional controlled-release properties for drug delivery systems. The study showed that manufacturers who buy matrix tablets can achieve precise, zero-order drug release kinetics over extended periods. Specifically, e6 grade demonstrated superior performance in maintaining consistent release rates across varying pH conditions, making it particularly valuable for oral medications requiring controlled bioavailability. The polymer’s unique hydration dynamics create a predictable diffusion barrier that enhances therapeutic efficacy through optimized pharmacokinetics.
• Film Formation and Coating Technologies Clinical trials in pharmaceutical technology () revealed that it provides substantial benefits as a film-forming agent for tablet coatings. The research documented that companies that buy for coating applications achieve superior film uniformity, mechanical strength, and moisture protection. The polymer demonstrates excellent adhesion to various core materials while maintaining flexibility after drying. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6 grade showed particular advantages in creating oxygen-barrier films with optimal transparency and controlled moisture permeability, vital for preserving the stability of sensitive active ingredients.
• Ophthalmological Applications Studies in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology () showed that it significantly enhances ophthalmic formulation performance. The research found that hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6 provides optimal viscoelastic properties for artificial tear formulations, extending ocular residence time by 300% compared to simple saline solutions. The polymer’s mucoadhesive properties and shear-thinning behavior make it ideal for ocular drug delivery, with patients experiencing improved comfort and reduced dosing frequency. Its biocompatibility and non-irritating nature have made it a gold standard excipient in ophthalmology.
• Food Industry Applications Research in Food Hydrocolloids () demonstrated that hydroxypropyl methylcellulose significantly benefits food formulations. Food manufacturers who buy gain access to a versatile stabilizer, emulsifier, and texture modifier. The polymer’s unique thermal gelation properties enable it to form strong, flexible films when heated, making it especially valuable in baked goods, enhancing volume retention and improving texture. The research documented its effectiveness in oil retention, dough strengthening, and freeze-thaw stability improvement.
• Construction Industry Benefits Clinical studies in Construction and Building Materials () showed that hydroxypropyl methylcellulose significantly enhances cement and mortar performance. Companies that buy hydroxypropyl methylcellulose for construction applications benefit from its water retention capabilities, which improve cement hydration and prevent rapid drying. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose e6 effectively enhanced workability, adhesion, and sag resistance in tile adhesives and renders. The research documented improved mechanical properties and reduced cracking in finished surfaces due to the polymer’s ability to optimize the water-cement ratio throughout the curing process.

These benefits are supported by extensive research and demonstrate the exceptional versatility of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. The compound’s diverse functional properties make it invaluable across multiple industries, from pharmaceuticals to construction. Its proven safety profile and remarkable functionality ensure continued innovation in established and emerging applications.

Side Effects: Is HPMC Safe?

• Mild Digestive Issues: Some individuals may experience bloating or mild laxative effects.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare, but possible reactions include skin irritation.
• Respiratory Sensitivity: Fine powder may cause mild respiratory irritation if inhaled.

FDA Approval: Is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Legal?

• United States (FDA): Approved as a food additive and pharmaceutical excipient.
• European Union (EFSA): Recognized as E464 and permitted in food applications.
• Canada (Health Canada): Approved for use in various industrial and food products.
• Australia (TGA): Allowed in pharmaceutical and food formulations.

What is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Used For?

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is widely used in various industries due to its thickening, emulsifying, film-forming, and stabilizing properties. It is commonly found in:

1. Pharmaceutical Products – Used as a tablet binder, film-coating agent, and controlled-release matrix in capsules and drug formulations.
2. Food Industry – Found in plant-based alternatives, gluten-free baked goods, and food stabilizers as a thickener and emulsifier.
3. Cosmetics & Personal Care – Included in lotions, shampoos, creams, and eye drops for its moisturizing and texture-enhancing properties.
4. Construction Materials – Added to cement, mortar, and tile adhesives to improve water retention, workability, and adhesion.
5. Paints & Coatings – Used as a viscosity modifier and film-forming agent in latex paints, coatings, and printing inks.

HPMC is a versatile ingredient that enhances stability, texture, and performance in a wide range of formulations.

Dosage Recommendation for Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

• As a dietary fiber supplement: 1,000–3,000 mg per day, taken with water to support digestion and gut health.
• As a pharmaceutical excipient (capsule coating or tablet binder): Typically used in concentrations of 2–5% of the total formulation weight.
• As a food additive (thickening or emulsifying agent): Usage levels range from 0.1–1.0% depending on the product formulation.

How to Store Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose HPMC Powder?

Store Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly sealed to prevent exposure to humidity, which can cause clumping or degradation. Ideal storage temperature is between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F) for maintaining its quality.

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose VS Sodium Hyaluronate

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and sodium hyaluronate serve distinct yet complementary roles in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications. As a semi-synthetic cellulose derivative, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose functions primarily as a versatile excipient, with grades like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose E6 specifically engineered for controlled-release formulations and ophthalmic solutions. Its value lies in its ability to modify viscosity, form gels, and create stable matrices for drug delivery. It makes it indispensable for manufacturers looking to buy hydroxypropyl methylcellulose for vegan capsule production or tablet coatings. In contrast, sodium hyaluronate, a naturally derived glycosaminoglycan, excels in biological functions due to its remarkable water-binding capacity and tissue-supporting properties.

The functional differences between these compounds are rooted in their mechanisms. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acts as a physical barrier or carrier in formulations, gradually releasing active ingredients while improving product texture and stability. Its synthetic nature allows for precise customization of properties like gel strength and thermal response. Sodium hyaluronate, however, participates actively in physiological processes—lubricating joints, hydrating skin, and promoting wound healing through direct interaction with cellular receptors. While hydroxypropyl methylcellulose E6 might be chosen for its consistent performance in extended-release tablets, sodium hyaluronate is preferred for its bioactive benefits in joint health supplements or anti-aging skincare serums.

In practical applications, these ingredients cater to different formulation needs. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose dominates in structural roles, serving as the backbone for vegetarian capsules, pharmaceutical binders, and food thickeners. Its cost-effectiveness and stability under various processing conditions make it a workhorse excipient. Sodium hyaluronate, though more expensive, is irreplaceable in premium applications requiring hydration and tissue repair, such as injectable dermal fillers or oral supplements for osteoarthritis. Some innovative products combine both—using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose as a delivery vehicle for sodium hyaluronate in nutricosmetic powders or layered-release tablets—to leverage the strengths of each.

PropertyHydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)Sodium HyaluronateCAS Number-65-3-32-7Molecular FormulaC56H108O30(C14H20NO11Na)nMolecular WeightVaries depending on polymer gradeVaries (high molecular weight polysaccharide)Powder ColorWhite to off-whiteWhite to off-whiteAppearanceFine powder or granulesFine powder or gelSolubilitySoluble in water, forms a gel-like solutionHighly soluble in water, forms a gelStabilityStable under dry conditionsSensitive to degradation by enzymesPrimary FunctionThickening agent, film-forming, stabilizerHydration, lubrication, skin & joint healthCommon UsesPharmaceutical coatings, food stabilizer, ophthalmic solutionsSkincare, joint health supplements, eye dropsMechanism of ActionForms a protective gel barrier, retains moistureBinds water molecules, improves hydration and lubricationBioavailabilityLimited absorption, mainly acts topically or in the gutAbsorbed in tissues, effective for hydrationOnset of ActionImmediate upon contact with moistureImmediate upon application or ingestionAdvantagesNon-toxic, widely used in pharmaceuticals and foodHighly effective in moisturizing and joint lubricationDisadvantagesDoes not provide long-term hydration benefitsCan degrade quickly, requiring stabilizationSourcesDerived from cellulose (plant-based)Derived from bacterial fermentation or animal sourcesOther InformationOften used in vegetarian capsules and artificial tearsFound in dermal fillers and medical-grade lubricantsConclusion

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a synthetic compound with wide applications in multiple industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics. Known for its ability to function as a stabilizer, binder, and thickening agent, HPMC is often used to improve various products’ texture, consistency, and shelf life. It is commonly used in tablet and capsule formulations in pharmaceuticals, where it serves as a binder that helps hold the ingredients together. It is also frequently used in food products as a fat replacer and emulsifier, enhancing product texture and stability. In the cosmetics industry, HPMC is also utilized in skincare formulations for its moisturizing and film-forming properties.

While Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is recognized for its versatility, its use should be governed by appropriate regulatory standards and guidelines. Manufacturers must ensure that the correct grade of HPMC is used for the intended application and that quality control measures are in place to guarantee the compound’s safety. Consumers should always rely on products formulated by reputable manufacturers to ensure HPMC is used safely and responsibly.

About Nutri Avenue: Buy Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) Here

Nutri Avenue stands at the forefront of dietary supplement innovation as a forward-thinking FDA-registered supplier exclusively focused on raw materials, bringing cutting-edge solutions to manufacturers, contract manufacturers, and private labelers worldwide.

Our advanced operational framework leverages five strategically positioned local inventories across the United States, enabling dynamic access to thousands of raw materials in bulk quantities at market-leading wholesale prices. Setting new benchmarks in today’s precision-driven landscape, we maintain rigorous standards through comprehensive third-party testing, digital certificates, and detailed analytical reports. At the same time, our strategic partnerships with major factories ensure adaptable and resilient supply chains.

Our sophisticated global network spans North America, Mexico, and key European territories, including Poland, Hungary, France, and the United Kingdom, alongside emerging South American markets such as Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay. We’ve optimized our distribution network with smart transportation solutions across sea, land, and air, ensuring agile delivery systems for contemporary supply chain demands.

Beyond traditional raw material supply, Nutri Avenue pioneers comprehensive OEM and ODM services, providing integrated digital-first solutions from material procurement to product customization. Our cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities embrace diverse formats, including capsules, soft gels, tablets, powders, and oils, enabling us to deliver next-generation solutions while maintaining exceptional quality throughout the manufacturing journey.

This article talks about the topic of hpmc vs cmc, which puzzled people so much. And introduced their definitions, characteristics and functions separately. At last, there is a conclusion of them to help people know hpmc vs cmc easily.

What is HPMC?

HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose): White or off-white fibrous and gritty powder, a solid and flammable stuff that is incompatible with strong oxidant. It is a kind of half-synthetic, inactive, viscous polymer. It is common to be used as lubricating agent for ophthalmology and be an ingredient in oral medicine. 

CHARACTERISTICS OF HPMC

1. High stability: HPMC process has relatively good stability under the wicked condition of high temperature, high humidity, acid-base and so on. It can enhance the stability of the medicine in pharmaceutic preparation. 

2. Good plasticity: HPMC could be used as adhesive and molding agent. It can help the factory produce better pharmaceutical agent because it can improve the mobility of the particle and the stability of the compression molding.

Want more information on Daily chemical grade hydroxypropyl methylcellulose HPMC? Feel free to contact us.

3. High grade of transparency: It can manufacture transparent solution and will not affect the appearance of the preparation due to the transparent characteristic of HPMC.

4. Good adhesion: HPMC shows good adhesion quality in aqueous solution and can be used to make preparations such as eye drops, oral medicine and oral capsule.

FUNCTIONS OF HPMC

1. Washing industry: HPMC has been widely used in the washing industry. It helps maintain the stability of various ingredients in products such as shampoo, hair conditioner and body wash. It prevents chemical components from separating during storage and transportation. That can guarantee product quality. Apart from that it can help to adjust the foam output and foam quality of the washing products which makes the products more comfortable and easy to use.

2. Construction industry: It is used as an adhesive in applying mortar, plaster, putty powder, or other building materials and is used as paste ceramic tile, marble, plastic decoration, and paste enhancer. It can improve spreading ability and extend the operating time, as well as reducing the amount of cement.

3.Pharmaceutical industries:Coating material; Membrane material; Rate-controlled polymer materials for sustained-release preparations; Stabilizer; Suspension aid; Tablet binder.

What is CMC?

CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose): A waterproof, filter and structure support and so on. It is a various particular chemical material that is widely used in medicine, food and paper manufacturing, etc. 

CHARACTERISTICS OF CMC

1. Water retention: CMC can react with water and forms an irreversible reaction, which makes the material has a good water retention quality

2. Adhesion: CMC has strong adhesive quality and could keep the stability of adhesion under different temperatures

3. Molding ability: CMC material can make various shapes

4. Filterable: CMC materials have good filterable quality 

FUNCTIONS OF CMC

1. Medicine: CMC materials are commonly used to make medicine like capsules, tablets, and so on. It has good solubility and progressive releasable ability. 

2. Food: CMC materials can be used as colloidal stabilizer, thickeners, emulsifier, etc., and widely used in beverages, juices, condiments and other food.

3. Making paper: CMC material has good adhesion, it is always used in the process of making paper, so it can improve the quality of paper and decrease the cost of production.

4. Chemical engineering: CMC material can be used in the preparation of thickening agent, emulsifier, anti-seepage agent and other chemical products, widely used. As a kind of green and environmentally friendly chemical material, CMC material is being more and more widely used in all kinds of industries. In the future, with the continuous advance of technology, the application field of CMC materials will be broader.

HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose) and CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose) are both cellulose-based substances commonly used in various industries. Here are some differences between HPMC VS CMC:

Chemical structure: Both HPMC and CMC are derivatives of cellulose, but their chemical structures differ slightly. 

HPMC is a modified form of cellulose that has been chemically treated with propylene oxide, while CMC is obtained by reacting alkali-cellulose with chloroacetic acid.

Solubility: HPMC dissolves in water to form a clear solution whereas CMC forms a gel-like substance when it comes into contact with water.

3. Viscosity: The viscosity of HPMC is higher than that of CMC for the same concentration at the same temperature.

4. Applications: HPMC is widely used in construction materials like cement mortar, tile adhesive, etc.

In contrast, CMC finds extensive applications in the food industry as an emulsifier or stabilizer because of its high solubility in water.

Overall, both these substances have unique properties that make them useful for different purposes depending on the specific needs of each application area.

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