Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, HEC 250 HX, Natrosol™ 250

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose HEC 250 HX

HEC (Hydroxyethylcellulose) is a nonionic thickener and rheology modifier for water-based products. It is commonly used in paints, coatings, detergents, cleaners, shampoos, lotions, adhesives, and other aqueous formulations where viscosity control and smooth flow properties are desired. This grade of HEC with designation 250 HX is designed for delayed hydration and improved dispersion during mixing operations. The controlled hydration characteristics help reduce fisheyes and lump formation, making it easier to incorporate into water-based systems, especially in larger production batches. A 1% preparation of HEC250HX in water typically produces a viscosity of approximately 3400 to 5500 cps. HEC250HX is an off-white granular powder that disperses and dissolves in cold or hot water to form clear solutions with pseudoplastic flow behavior. Chemically, it is cellulose ether modified with hydroxyethyl groups to provide thickening, water retention, stabilization, suspension, and rheology control properties. For cold or room temperature preparation, continuous agitation for approximately 30 minutes is recommended to achieve full hydration and uniform viscosity development.

Product Specifications

Applications and Benefits:

• Designed for applications requiring easier dispersion and controlled viscosity build.
• Delayed hydration profile allows particles to separate more effectively before full thickening occurs.
• Helps improve mixing efficiency and minimize agglomeration.
• Compatible with many surfactants, polymers, salts, and formulation additives due to its nonionic nature.
• Used as a thickener, stabilizer, water retention aid, and suspension agent in water-based systems.
• Suitable for water-based paints and coatings.
• Suitable for detergents and household cleaners.
• Suitable for adhesives and latex systems.
• Suitable for personal care formulations, including shampoos and lotions.
• Suitable for pigment dispersions and industrial aqueous formulations.
• Perfect for coating manufacturers, detergent formulators, adhesive producers, industrial manufacturers, and personal care developers.

Caution:

For cold or room temperature preparation, continuous agitation for approximately 30 minutes is recommended to achieve full hydration and uniform viscosity development.