- Properties of HPMC
- In the construction industry, HEC is used in cement-based products such as tile adhesives and grouts as a thickening agent. The viscosity of these products is critical for proper application and adhesion of tiles. The concentration of HEC is adjusted to achieve the desired workability and setting time.
- On the other hand, HPMC is a semi-synthetic polymer obtained by modifying cellulose with both hydroxypropyl and methyl groups. This modification imparts it with unique properties like film-forming ability and solubility in cold water. In pharmaceuticals, HPMC serves as a key ingredient in controlled-release formulations, acting as a capsule shell or film coating. In construction, it is used as a plastering material, improving the strength and durability of building structures In construction, it is used as a plastering material, improving the strength and durability of building structures
In construction, it is used as a plastering material, improving the strength and durability of building structures In construction, it is used as a plastering material, improving the strength and durability of building structures
hec vs hpmc.
6. Agricultural sector:
What is an HPMC Capsule?
Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose as a feed additive for all animal species. Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is intended for use as a technological additive (functional group: stabiliser) in premixtures and feedingstuffs for all animal species with no minimum and maximum content. A proper identification and characterisation of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose as required for a feed additive is not available and the occurrence of potential toxic impurities cannot be assessed. The following conclusions apply only to hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose meeting the food additive specifications. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is considered safe for all animal species. The use of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose in animal nutrition is of no concern for consumer safety. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel was not in the position to conclude on the safety of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose for the user. The use of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose as a feed additive is considered safe for the environment. The additive is considered to be efficacious in feedingstuffs for all animal species.
Of course, there are plenty of other materials that supplement capsules can be made from. HPMC is by far the most common, but bovine gelatine capsules are still used occasionally, or there are more unusual options, such as pullulan, which is made from a tapioca extract.