HPMC Hydroksipropyylimetyyliselluloosa

HPMC (CAS 9004-65-3) is used as a multifunctional cellulose ether additive across many industries. Its primary functions include water retention, thickening, workability improvement, film formation, binding, and formulation stabilization. Most widely used in drymix construction materials, and also in detergents, personal care, pharmaceutical excipients, food systems (E464), coatings, ceramics, and specialty industrial applications.

In tile adhesive, HPMC improves water retention to support cement hydration, extends open time to give installers more working time, provides anti-slip behavior to prevent tiles from sliding on vertical surfaces, and improves troweling feel and application consistency. High to extra-high viscosity grades are typically used, at dosages of 0.2%–0.5% of the dry mix weight.

Tile adhesive commonly uses high to extra-high viscosity HPMC, typically in the range of 50,000–200,000 mPa·s (measured at 2% aqueous solution). The exact viscosity grade depends on the formulation type, tile size and weight, required open time, anti-slip performance target, and application conditions. Final grade selection should be confirmed through formulation testing.

The typical reference dosage for HPMC in tile adhesive is 0.2%–0.5% by weight of the dry mix. This range is widely referenced in the drymix mortar industry as a starting point. However, the optimal dosage depends on the specific formulation, cement type, filler quality, target open time, water retention requirement, and application conditions. Final dosage must be confirmed through laboratory and field testing.

In wall putty and skim coat, HPMC improves water retention to prevent rapid drying, enhances scraping smoothness and surface finish quality, improves spreading behavior and workability, and helps maintain consistent product texture during application. Medium to high viscosity grades are typically used at dosages of 0.2%–0.5%.

HPMC uses hydroxypropyl groups while HEMC uses hydroxyethyl groups on the cellulose backbone, affecting water retention profile, dissolution behavior, and performance in specific applications. Both are used in tile adhesive, wall putty, and plaster. HPMC is more widely used across multiple industries including pharma, food, and personal care, while HEMC/MHEC is particularly established in European drymix construction markets.

Yes. Hypromellose is the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) and pharmacopoeial name for HPMC. It is used in pharmaceutical and food regulatory contexts. HPMC and Hypromellose refer to the same chemical substance (CAS 9004-65-3).

Yes. HPMC is approved as a food additive under the code E464 in the European Union and is recognized in food regulations in many other markets. Food applications require suitable food-grade HPMC that meets applicable purity and safety standards, and compliance with the specific food regulations of the target market is required.

Yes. Suitable pharmaceutical grades — referred to as Hypromellose — are widely used as excipients in tablet manufacturing, film coating, controlled-release systems, HPMC capsule shells, and ophthalmic formulations. HPMC is listed in the USP/NF, Ph. Eur., and JP pharmacopoeias. Pharmaceutical applications require grades manufactured and tested to pharmacopoeial standards.

Surface-treated HPMC delays hydration when it contacts water, preventing premature lump formation and allowing the powder to disperse evenly before viscosity develops — commonly preferred in drymix mortar systems. Non-surface-treated HPMC dissolves more quickly and is preferred in systems where fast viscosity development is required.

The right HPMC grade depends on your application, required viscosity level, formulation system type (cement-based, gypsum-based, liquid, semi-solid), processing conditions, dissolution behavior requirement, and final performance targets. Contact LANDERCOLL with your application details, and our team can recommend suitable grade directions and support your formulation evaluation.

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