Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, HEC 250 HX, Natrosol™ 250

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose HEC 250 HX

HEC (Hydroxyethyl Cellulose) is a nonionic thickener and rheology modifier for water-based products. It is commonly used in paints, coatings, detergents, cleaners, shampoos, lotions, adhesives, latex systems, and other aqueous formulations where viscosity control, water retention, stabilization, suspension, and smooth flow properties are desired.

This grade, designated 250 HX, is a high-viscosity hydroxyethyl cellulose grade designed for easier dispersion and controlled hydration during mixing operations. Its 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 HEC 250 HX in water typically produces a viscosity of approximately 1,500 to 2,500 cP.

HEC 250 HX 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.

Product Specifications

Applications and Benefits:

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

Caution:

Avoid dust formation and accumulation. Dust may form combustible dust concentrations in air. Keep away from heat, sparks, flames, and ignition sources. Store in a dry place and protect from moisture.

For cold or room temperature preparation, add slowly to well-agitated water and continue mixing until fully dispersed and hydrated. Hydration time may vary depending on pH, temperature, agitation, concentration, and formulation conditions.

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