Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Industrial HPMC Powder

Melacoll'-05-07 08:30

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit our website.

When purchasing HPMC for tile adhesive, there are essential considerations to keep in mind. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is derived from the etherification of high-purity cotton cellulose under alkaline conditions. In the construction industry, HPMC serves primarily as an additive for water retention and thickening, making it popular for use in tile adhesives. These adhesives are modern materials used for affixing decorative items like ceramic tiles, surface tiles, and floor tiles.

Tile adhesives provide numerous benefits, including high adhesion and good flexibility. Typically, tile adhesive consists of cement, sand, calcium formate, and various additives mixed in specific proportions. The tile adhesive formulation includes several additives, with cellulose ethers being crucial for enhancing water retention and thickening. HPMC and HEMC are the most commonly utilized. This article will explore the top 7 things you should know when buying HPMC for tile adhesive, emphasizing HPMC as a fundamental additive.

1. The Ultimate Guide on HPMC Grade

1.1 By Application Field: HPMC is classified into various grades: construction-grade, daily chemical-grade, food-grade, and pharmaceutical-grade. Tile adhesives utilize construction-grade HPMC.

1.2 By Viscosity: Viscosity significantly influences HPMC's functionality. It affects the viscosity of the tile adhesive, as measured by a particular concentration (2%) of HPMC solution under specified conditions (20°C and 20rpm). Higher viscosity in HPMC solutions results in better adhesion and structural stability in tile adhesives. However, excessively high viscosity may hinder operability.

1.3 Viscosity Classification: HPMC can be categorized as low, medium, or high viscosity. Note that measurements can vary based on the viscometer used, so consistency in testing equipment is crucial.

1.4 Solubility in Water: HPMC can be classified as delayed dissolution type (surface-treated) or non-delayed dissolution type (non-surface-treated). In construction, determining the type of HPMC is essential for understanding its performance in various conditions.

Non-surface treated HPMC:

• Particles dissolve quickly in neutral, alkaline, or acidic states but can clump in the liquid, leading to agglomeration.
• While usable for cement-based and gypsum-grade adhesives, it is unsuitable for paste emulsion-based adhesives.

Surface treated HPMC:

• These particles disperse well in neutral water and dissolve thoroughly after a soaking period.
• The rate of dissolution and dispersion can be adjusted based on the application environment.

2. HPMC Solutions for Different Application Scenarios of Tile Adhesive

Indoor Tile Adhesive: Application in Kitchens and Bathrooms

For home décor, ceramic tiles are often used in moisture-prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Therefore, high-viscosity, waterproof HPMC is recommended for these spaces to ensure durability and extended maintenance life.

Outdoor Tile Adhesive: Application in Swimming Pools and Exterior Walls

Exterior environments require adhesives that are water-resistant, heat-resistant, cold-resistant, and abrasion-resistant. Selecting high-viscosity HPMC for these applications ensures strong adhesive properties to withstand the elements.

3. HPMC Production Process

What is HPMC made from? HPMC first emerged from the reaction of alkali-swollen cellulose with dimethyl sulfate. Industrial production methods have evolved, with the gas-phase and liquid-phase methods being the primary processes today.

Gas-phase Method:

This method is predominantly utilized in advanced countries, employing wood pulp as raw material with integrated alkalization and etherification in a single reactor system. The process boasts advantages such as lower labor intensity and high output.

Liquid-phase Method:

Commonly used by Chinese manufacturers, this method is cost-effective yet requires more equipment and labor inputs. It involves refined cotton and different organic solvents in reacting environments aimed at producing various HPMC grades efficiently.

4. Factors Affecting HPMC Price

Price is always a major consideration when purchasing HPMC. The cost varies based on viscosity, purity, and market demand for raw materials. Recent global factors, including the pandemic and fluctuations in cotton prices, have habitually influenced HPMC pricing.

For competitive pricing and timely delivery, Honglai sincerely hopes to become your supplier and partner.

5. Why Choose Melacoll?

As a professional manufacturer of cellulose ethers, MIKEM ensures high-quality products adhering to American ISO standards. Our strategic location in China provides us with a cost-effective edge in producing HPMC.

6. Comparison of HPMC and HEMC

6.1 Production Processes Comparison

The production methods differ, impacting physical and chemical properties, such as water retention and thermal gel properties.

6.2 Differences in Content

The methoxy and hydroxypropyl contents in HPMC and HEMC yield varying degrees of stability and performance.

6.3 Applications in Tile Adhesive

Both compounds serve essential roles in tile adhesive formulations, with HEMC exhibiting improved thermal stability and hydrophilicity under high temperature conditions.

7. The Advantages of HPMC in Tile Adhesives

• Enhances water retention capabilities, boosting bonding strength and slip resistance.
• Offers handleability, allowing for adjustments during tile placement.
• Makes mixing dry powder components efficient and prevents clumping.
• Improves flexibility and workability of tile adhesives.