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E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used in gluten free baking to improve the elasticity, stability and volume.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose can also be used as a fat replacer in fat free foods.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is commonly used in the production of vegetarian capsules, providing an alternative to gelatin capsules for those following vegetarian or vegan diets.
CAS Number: 9004-65-3
EC Number: 618-389-6
General Polymer Formula: [C6H7O2(OH)x(OCH3)y(OCH2CHOHCH3)z]n
Molecular Weight: Variable polymer, typically 10,000 – 1,500,000 g/mol
SYNONYMS:
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Hypromellose, HPMC, Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose Ether, Hydroxypropyl Methyl Ether Cellulose, Methocel, Pharmacoat, Benecel, E464, INS No. 464, Hypromellose, Methocel, MHPC, Cellulose ether HPMC, Hydroxylpropylmethylcellulose, Propylene glycol ether of methylcellulose, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, HPMC, E464, Cellulose,2-hydroxypropyl methyl ether, Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose ether, Methocel X 2602, Methyl hydroxypropyl cellulose, Cellulose hydroxypropyl methyl ether, Methocel HG 65, Methocel HG 60, Methofas PM, Methocel HG, Courlose HPM, Methocel J 12HS, Methocel HG 90, 2-Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, Methofas PM 4500, Celacol HPM 450, Methocel E, Methocel F, Methocel K, Pharmacoat 603, Methocel 60HG4000, Celacol HPM 5000, HPMC 20000PV, Pharmacoat 606, TC 5R, Methocel XD 1214, Methocel XD 1214.44, Methocel HG 228, Methocel K 4M Premium, Methocel K 4M, Metolose 90SH4000, Methocel 50, MOPTs, Metolose 60SH50, Methocel 228, Synchron-Oral, Methocel F 4M, Methocel K 15M-DGS, MC 400, Metolose 90SH15000, Methocel E 15, Culminal MHPC, Methocel F 7M, Culminal MHPC 6000, TC 5, Metolose 90SH100, Synchron, Methocel K 100M, Methocel E 5, Methocel J, Methocel E 15LV, Methocel E 50, Methocel K 100, Methocel E 4M, Methocel MK 4, Metolose 90SH30000, Celacol HPM 15000DS, Metolose 65SH50, Methocel J 75MS, Metolose 65SH400, Methocel J 75, Methocel K 15MS, Metolose SH 4000, Hypromellose, Viscontran MHPC 50, Marpolose MP 4000, Metolose 60SH4000, Methocel J 5MS, Methocel F 50, 2-Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose ether, Methocel 90HG40, Walocel MW 60GA, Walocel MK 3.000PF, Culminal MHPC 20000PR, Methocel K 4MS, Metolose 90SH3000, Metolose 65SH4000, Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, Marpolose 60MP5, Celacol 15000DS, Methocel K 15M, Metolose 65SH1500, TC 5E, Methofas PM 450, 8063-82-9, 11106-33-5, 12673-53-9, 37341-76-7, 39363-71-8, 59029-31-1, 62683-26-5, 65607-39-8, 68073-10-9, 71373-07-4, 98112-80-2, 125053-98-7, 125857-43-4, 137397-89-8, 137397-90-1, 137397-91-2, 171544-38-0, 173080-61-0, 194615-25-3, 876407-53-3, 1262284-64-9, 2227180-04-1, 2258661-54-8, 2376293-65-9
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a semi-synthetic, non-ionic cellulose ether produced from natural cellulose through chemical modification with methyl chloride and propylene oxide.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is one of the most widely used cellulose derivatives in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and construction industries because of its excellent thickening, stabilizing, film-forming, emulsifying, and water-retention properties.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose appears as a white to slightly off-white fibrous or granular powder that is odorless and tasteless.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose dissolves in cold water to form clear or slightly opalescent viscous solutions.
Due to its multifunctional properties and broad compatibility with many formulation ingredients, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is considered one of the most versatile hydrocolloids and rheology modifiers used in industrial applications.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is also known for excellent water-retention capacity, which helps prevent moisture loss in formulations.
Its non-ionic nature gives E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose broad compatibility with electrolytes and stability across a wide pH range.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose forms flexible, transparent films with good mechanical strength and adhesion.
Because of this property, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is commonly used in coatings and controlled-release systems.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is biologically inert, non-toxic under normal usage conditions, and resistant to enzymatic degradation in the human digestive tract.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is manufactured through etherification of purified cellulose under alkaline conditions using methyl chloride and propylene oxide.
The degree of substitution and molar substitution strongly influence viscosity, gelation temperature, solubility, and film-forming behavior.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose belongs to the broader cellulose ether family, which also includes:
Methyl Cellulose (E461)
Ethyl Cellulose (E462)
Ethyl Methyl Cellulose (E465)
Carboxymethyl Cellulose (E466)
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
Hydroxypropyl Cellulose (E463)
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a semisynthetic food additive with emulsifying, stabilizing, thickening and formation of suspensions role, obtained from cellulose.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer obtained from natural cellulose through chemical modification.
Thanks to its non-ionic structure, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is unaffected by pH changes and provides high stability, water-holding capacity, and viscosity control.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is also used as a substance-support for other food additives.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is insoluble and indigestible, having a detoxifying role for the digestive tract.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is an insoluble hygroscopic powder, which is used in the quantities on the recipes in dairy products, in sweets, creams, emulsified fat spreads with or without flavors, sauces, snacks, ice creams, processed, preserved fruits and vegetables, meat products, fish, eggs, spices, soups, broths, salads, edible membranes, vegetable protein products, nutritional supplements, mustard, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, dietetic products etc.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a semisynthetic, inert, viscoelastic polymer used in eye drops, as well as an excipient and controlled-delivery component in oral medicaments, found in a variety of commercial products.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is an effective and most popular thickener, stabilising agent and emulsifier in the food industry.
Accordingly, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose stabilises consistency, product structure, increases viscosity and improves palatability.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is authorised in the European Union, the United States and Canada as safe for human health.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is noteworthy that under cold conditions the additive exhibits its thickening properties, while at higher temperatures it exhibits its gelling properties.
In addition, this effect has a reversible effect when the temperature regime is changed.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose in cosmetics production
Due to its binding, moisture retention and texture stabilising properties, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a popular component of many cosmetic products.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a plant-derived food additive used as a thickener, stabiliser, and gelling agent in a wide range of food products.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a semi-synthetic food additive derived from plant-based cellulose.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is produced by chemically modifying cellulose, a natural structural component found in plant cell walls.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is approved as a food additive in the European Union and is considered safe for human consumption.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a white, odourless, tasteless powder produced chemically from cellulose.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose produces a soft, fluid gel that maintains viscosity during heating.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, also known as HPMC or E464, is a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose's empirical formula is C56H108O30.
Classified as a non-ionic cellulose ether, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose typically appears as a white to off-white powder.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is produced by chemically modifying cellulose, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls, through the addition of methyl and hydroxypropyl groups.
This modification enhances E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose's solubility and gel-forming properties.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a white or cream coloured powder.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose dissolves well in cold water.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose's solubility decreases with increasing temperature.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a suspending, film-forming, moisture-retaining, thickening agent, as well as a food additive that forms a stable structure of the finished product.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose should be stored in dry covered warehouses, away from sunlight in manufacturer’s containers on pallets.
USES and APPLICATIONS of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used in gluten free baking to improve the elasticity, stability and volume.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose can also be used as a fat replacer in fat free foods.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) is a plant-derived compound used as a thickener, stabiliser, and emulsifier in food and supplements.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a type of cellulose, which is a natural polymer found in plant cell walls.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is commonly used in the production of vegetarian capsules, providing an alternative to gelatin capsules for those following vegetarian or vegan diets.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is also used in gluten-free baking to improve texture and moisture retention.
People with dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarians, vegans, or those with gluten intolerance, may benefit from products containing E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used in the food and supplement industries.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used in a wide variety of food products, fulfilling several important technological functions:
Thickener: E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose increases viscosity in sauces, dressings, and soups
Gelling agent: E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose forms gels in low-fat or vegan products
Stabiliser: E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose stabilises emulsions and foams
Humectant: E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose extends shelf life and freshness in baked goods
Film-forming agent: E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used to coat tablets and capsules in the pharmaceutical industry
Common food products containing E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose include baked goods, desserts, ice cream, sauces, salad dressings, meat substitutes, and gluten-free products, where it replaces the binding function normally provided by gluten.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is non-ionic cellulose ether, mainly used as filmogen and gels of thin film coating and emulgator, suspending agent and stabilizer of ointment.
The concentration of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose generally is 2-10%.
In tablet, granulation, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used as adhesive, with concentration generally 2-5%.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used in oral and topical preparation, mainly used as adhesive of tablet, thin film coating material and framework material of sustained-release tablet.
For low viscosity, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose can be used as adhesive of wet granulation tablet and adhesive of dry granulation.
High viscosity can be used as retardant of framework of tablet and capsule, with the function of delaying drug release.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is extensively used in the food industry as a thickener, stabilizer, emulsifier, suspending agent, moisture-retention agent, and texture modifier.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose improves viscosity, consistency, mouthfeel, and stability in products such as sauces, bakery products, dairy products, instant foods, frozen desserts, whipped toppings, beverages, meat analogues, and gluten-free products.
In bakery applications, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose helps improve dough structure, gas retention, softness, and shelf life.
In gluten-free formulations, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose mimics some functional properties of gluten and improves texture and elasticity.
As a food additive, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is an emulsifier, thickening and suspending agent, and an alternative to animal gelatin.
In pharmaceutical applications, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used as a tablet binder, coating polymer, capsule material, controlled-release matrix former, ophthalmic lubricant, and thickening agent.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose plays a major role in sustained-release drug delivery systems because it can form hydrophilic gel barriers that regulate drug release rates.
Hypromellose capsules made from E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose are commonly used as vegetarian alternatives to gelatin capsules.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used as a plant-based alternative to gelatin capsules.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a plant-derived food additive used as a thickener, stabiliser, and gelling agent in a wide range of food products.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (INN name: Hypromellose), also simplified as HPMC, is a variety of nonionic cellulose mixed ethers.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a semi-synthetic, inactive, viscoelastic polymer .This product is industrial grade HPMC, mainly used as the dispersing agent for PVC production and as the main assistant used in producing PVC suspension polymerization.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is also used as thickener, stabilizer, emulsifier, excipient, water retention agent, and film-forming agent etc.in producing petrochemicals, building materials, paint removers, agricultural chemicals, inks, textiles, ceramics, paper. cosmetics and other products.
Application of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose: Tile Adhesive, Cement Plaster / Dry mix mortar, Wall putty, Exterior Insulation and Finish System, Self-leveling.
In cosmetics and personal care products, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose functions as a thickener, emulsifier, stabilizer, and film former.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is commonly found in creams, lotions, shampoos, facial cleansers, toothpaste, hair gels, mascara, and skin-care formulations.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose improves viscosity, spreadability, texture, and product stability while also enhancing moisture retention.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabiliser in food and pharmaceutical products, contributing to the normal texture and consistency of various formulations.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used in the food industry as a multipurpose food ingredient.
In the construction industry, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is heavily used in cement-based products, tile adhesives, mortars, gypsum products, plasters, and wall putties.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose improves water retention, workability, open time, adhesion, sag resistance, and crack resistance.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose also enhances consistency and processing behavior in dry-mix construction materials.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose stabiliser is used in production: soup concentrates, deep-frozen foods, tinned fruit and vegetables (including fruit fillings), mayonnaises, soursop concentrates, meat products, processed cheeses, fermented milk products, confectionery and desserts, ketchups.
Industrial applications of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose include paints, coatings, inks, adhesives, ceramics, textile processing, detergents, agricultural formulations, and polymer systems.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose's rheological control properties help improve suspension stability, coating quality, flow behavior, and product uniformity.
There are many fields of application for E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, including: Tile adhesives, Cement renders, Gypsum products, Pharmaceutical, Paints and coatings, Food, Cosmetics, Detergents and cleaners, Eye drops, Contact lenses, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC),
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) is a semi-synthetic fiber used as a stabilizer, thickener, and emulsifier in food products.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by FDA when used in approved amounts.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is derived from cellulose and not digested by humans, acting as a dietary fiber.
-Special Property of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose: Thermoreversible Gelation:
One of the most distinctive properties of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is its thermoreversible gelling behaviour: unlike most gelling agents, HPMC forms a gel upon heating and returns to a liquid state upon cooling.
This unusual characteristic makes E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose particularly valuable in food processing, for example in the production of low-fat products where it mimics the functional role of fat during cooking.
-Uses of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose in the Pharmaceutical Industry:
Beyond food, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose plays an important role in the pharmaceutical industry.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is widely used as a tablet coating material (film coating), as a binder in tablet formulations, and as a viscosity modifier in eye drops.
In ophthalmology, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a common ingredient in artificial tear preparations used to treat dry eye syndrome.
-Use in construction materials:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used primarily in construction materials like tile adhesives and renders where it is used as a rheology modifier and water retention agent.
Functionally E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is very similar to HEMC (hydroxy ethyl methyl cellulose)
-Ophthalmic applications of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose solutions were patented as a semisynthetic substitute for tear-film.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose's molecular structure is predicated upon a base celluloid compound that is highly water-soluble.
Post-application, celluloid attributes of good water solubility reportedly aid in visual clarity.
When applied, a E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose solution acts to swell and absorb water, thereby expanding the thickness of the tear-film.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose augmentation therefore results in extended lubricant time presence on the cornea, which theoretically results in decreased eye irritation, especially in dry climates, home, or work environments.
On a molecular level, this polymer contains beta-linked D-glucose units that remain metabolically intact for days to weeks.
On a manufacturing note, since E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a vegetarian substitute for gelatin, it is slightly more expensive to produce due to semisynthetic manufacturing processes.
Aside from its widespread commercial and retail availability over the counter in a variety of products, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose 2% solution has been documented to be used during surgery to aid in corneal protection and during orbital surgery.
-Excipient/tableting ingredient uses of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose:
In addition to its use in ophthalmic liquids, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose has been used as an excipient in oral tablet and capsule formulations, where, depending on the grade, it functions as controlled release agent to delay the release of a medicinal compound into the digestive tract.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is also used as a binder and as a component of tablet coatings.
-In the chemical industry uses oof E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is also used as an additive in adhesives and paintwork.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is also used as a stabilising agent in construction mixtures.
-In construction uses of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is used in the production of dry construction mixtures – cement, putty, gypsum, etc.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose acts as a mixture thickener and moisture retainer in the production of paints, glue mixtures and other finishing materials.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose acts as a mixture thickener and moisture retarder in the production of paints, adhesive mixtures and other finishing materials.
Instructions for use of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose
The average dosage is 0.04-0.7% of the dry weight of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.
For construction mixtures based on cement, gypsum the dosage is 0,1-0,7% depending on the technological process.
FOOD ADDITIVE ROLE of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
You see food-grade E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose in many foods because it works well as a food additive.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose helps improve texture, stabilize mixtures, and keep ingredients from separating.
Regulatory agencies around the world have reviewed E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose's safety and approved its use.
WHAT IS FOOD-GRADE E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE?
You may wonder what food-grade E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose actually is.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose stands for hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.
Manufacturers create E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose from cellulose, which comes from plant fibers.
During production, they replace some of the natural hydroxyl groups in cellulose with hydroxypropyl and methyl groups.
This process uses propylene oxide and methyl chloride.
By changing the number of these groups, they can control the properties of the final product.
The result is a semisynthetic polymer that looks like a white, odorless powder.
You will find that E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose dissolves easily in water and forms a gel-like texture.
ADVANTAGES of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
*Non-toxic, biocompatible.
*As defined in USP, EP and Turkish Pharmacopoeia.
*Low moisture sensitivity, high stability.
*E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is suitable for vegan/vegetarian formulations.
FUNCTION & CHARACTERISTICS of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
Many different uses of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, mainly as thickening agent, but also as filler, dietary fibre, anti clumping agent and emulsfier.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is similar as cellulose, but better soluble in water.
BENEFITS of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
Excellent thickening efficiency
Strong water-retention capability
Stable over a wide pH range
Non-ionic and highly compatible
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose forms clear and flexible films
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose improves texture and mouthfeel
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose enhances emulsion stability
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose provides thermal gelation behavior
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose improves freeze-thaw stability
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose supports controlled drug release
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose improves adhesion and workability
Effective at low concentrations
Derived from plant cellulose sources
Suitable for vegetarian and vegan formulations
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose helps stabilize suspensions and dispersions
ORIGIN of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is prepared from cellulose, the main polysaccharide and constituent of wood and all plant structures.
Commercially prepared from wood and chemically modified.
ADVANTAGES of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
High water retention capacity (especially in hot/dry climates)
Processability and ease of implementation.
Homogeneous mixture and thickening effect.
Fully compatible with cement, gypsum and lime-based systems.
BENEFITS of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
• E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose contains high levels of soluble fibre.
• Gels at a high temperature of 70-75ºC.
• Very good stabiliser, thickener, gelling agent and emulsifier.
• Great freeze/thaw stability and high moisture retention.
CHARACTERISTICS AND FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose combines hydrophilic and hydrophobic functional groups, giving it exceptional multifunctional properties.
The methoxy groups contribute to surface activity and gelation behavior, while hydroxypropyl groups improve water solubility and flexibility.
One of the most important characteristics of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is thermal gelation.
When heated above a certain temperature, aqueous solutions form gels that return to liquid form upon cooling.
This reversible gelation property makes it valuable in food processing and pharmaceutical applications.
TEST METHODS of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
Various benchmark tests are used to qualify E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose:
Viscosity
Degree of substitution (DS)
Molar substitution (MS)
Salt content
Moisture
Ash Content
Viscosity test methods
Because E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose solution is a non-newtonian solution and exhibits pseudoplastic, more specifically, thixotropic behavior, various test methods are available, and the results of different methods and viscosimeters do not necessarily correspond to each other.
Also, due to viscometer acceptable ranges of error, viscosity is typically given as a mean, or as a range.
Typical viscosity test will specify the following:
Solution concentration (1%, 2%, 1.9% bone dry, etc.)
Viscometer (RheoSense m-VROC and microVISC, Brookfield LV or RV, Höppler falling ball, Haake Rotovisco, etc.)
Viscometer spindle number (1 ~ 4 for Brookfield LV, 1 ~ 7 for Brookfield RV, etc.)
Solution Temperature (20 °C, 25 °C, etc.)
Degree of substitution
Degree of substitution is the average level of methoxy substitution on the cellulose chain.
Since there are maximum three possible sites of substitution with each cellulose molecule, this average value is a real number between 0 and 3.
However, degree of substitution is often expressed in percentages.
Molar substitution
Molar substitution is the average level of hydroxypropoxy substitution on the cellulose chain.
Since hydroxypropoxy base can be attached to each other on side chains and does not each require a base substitution site on the cellulose molecule, this number can be higher than 3.
However, molar substitution is also often expressed in percentages.
Moisture
Since all cellulose ethers are hygroscopic, they will absorb moisture from surroundings if left exposed from original packaging.
Thus, moisture must be tested and weight corrected to ensure adequate amount of dry active material are apportioned for usage.
Moisture is tested by weighing a sample of X grams on an analytic scale, and drying the sample in an oven at 105 °C for 2 hours, then weighing the sample again on the same scale.
Ash Content
The content of active ingredients in E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is directly proportional to its cost-effectiveness, which means better performance at the same dosage.
The active ingredient in E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is etherified cellulose, an organic substance.
Its content can be measured by the ash content from calcined E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.
Generally, a higher ash value indicates a lower content of active ingredients.
Place the crucible with the dried E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose sample into a furnace set to 550 °C.
During this process, the organic components of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose burn away, leaving behind only inorganic ash.
Then you can calculate the ash content using the following formula:
Content(%) = Weight of Ash(g) / Initial Sample Weight(g) x 100%
Key Takeaways
Food-grade E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is safe to eat, approved by major health authorities like the FDA and EU.
This ingredient acts like dietary fiber, passing through your body without being absorbed.
You can find food-grade E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose in many everyday foods, improving texture and stability.
Most people experience no side effects, but some may have mild digestive issues if consumed in large amounts.
Always check food labels for ‘hydroxypropyl methylcellulose’ or ‘E464’ to identify E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.
PRODUCTION PROCESS of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
Alkalization:
Cellulose is treated with alkali (NaOH) to obtain alkaline cellulose.
Etherification:
Alkaline cellulose is reacted with methyl chloride and propylene oxide to form E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.
Purification:
After the reaction, the product is washed and purified.
Drying and Grinding:
The purified product is dried and ground into powder form.
Quality Control:
Substitution degree (DS/MS), viscosity, purity, moisture content, and particle size tests are performed.
CHEMISTRY of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a solid, and is a slightly off-white to beige powder in appearance and may be formed into granules.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose forms colloids when dissolved in water.
This non-toxic ingredient, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, is combustible and can react vigorously with oxidizing agents.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose in an aqueous solution, like methylcellulose, exhibits a thermal gelation property.
That is, when the solution heats up to a critical temperature, the solution congeals into a non-flowable but semi-flexible mass.
Typically, this critical (congealing) temperature is inversely related to both the solution concentration of E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and the concentration of the methoxy group within the E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose molecule (which in turn depends on both the degree of substitution of the methoxy group and the molar substitution).
That is, the higher the concentration of the methoxy group, the lower the critical temperature.
The inflexibility/viscosity of the resulting mass, however, is directly related to the concentration of the methoxy group (the higher the concentration is, the more viscous or less flexible the resulting mass is.
ORIGIN AND PRODUCTION of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is obtained from cellulose of plant origin, typically sourced from wood pulp or cotton fibres.
Through chemical treatment with propylene oxide and methyl chloride, hydroxypropyl and methyl groups are introduced into the cellulose structure, giving the compound its unique functional properties.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is a white or off-white powder that dissolves in cold water to form a clear, viscous gel.
HOW E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE WORKS IN THE BODY
In the body, E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose forms a gel-like substance when it comes into contact with water, which can help control the release of active ingredients, ensuring they are absorbed more effectively.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is not absorbed by the body and is considered safe for consumption.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) is generally recognised as safe when used as a food additive.
E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose is not absorbed by the body and is excreted unchanged, minimising systemic effects.
Individuals with gastrointestinal sensitivities may experience mild digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas.
There is no specific UK upper intake level for E464 Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, but it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
Chemical Name: Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose
Common Abbreviation: HPMC
Food Additive Number: E464
CAS Number: 9004-65-3
EC Number: 618-389-6
Molecular Formula: C56H108O30
General Polymer Formula: [C6H7O2(OH)x(OCH3)y(OCH2CHOHCH3)z]n
Molecular Weight: Variable polymer, typically 10,000 – 1,500,000 g/mol
Chemical Family: Non-ionic Cellulose Ether
Appearance: White or slightly off-white powder
Physical Form: Fibrous or granular powder
Odor: Odorless
Taste: Tasteless
Ionic Nature: Non-ionic
Solubility in Water: Soluble in cold water
Solubility in Hot Water: Insoluble; forms gel upon heating
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Partially soluble in some alcohol-water mixtures
Viscosity: Available in low, medium, and high viscosity grades
pH Stability Range: Approximately pH 3 to 11
Gelation Temperature: Thermal gelation occurs upon heating
Moisture Content: Hygroscopic
Film-Forming Ability: Excellent
Surface Activity: Moderate surface-active properties
Emulsifying Ability: Good emulsifier and stabilizer
Foaming Properties: Can stabilize foam systems
Density: Approximately 1.2 – 1.4 g/cm³
Thermal Stability: Stable under normal processing conditions
Decomposition Temperature: Decomposes at elevated temperatures
Ash Content: Low
Water Retention Capacity: Excellent
Particle Size: Varies according to grade
Compatibility: Compatible with many salts, polymers, surfactants, and gums
Solution Appearance: Clear or slightly cloudy viscous solution
Cloud Point: Depends on substitution level and concentration
Chemical Name: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (Hypromellose)
CAS Number: 9004-65-3
E Code (Food): E464
Molecular Formula: C₅₅H₁₀₈O₃₀ (variable cellulose derivative)
Molecular Weight: ~1261.4 g/mol
Chemical Structure: Non-ionic cellulose ether
Appearance: White - off-white powder
Intensity: ~1.26 g/cm³
Resolution: Soluble in cold water; insoluble in hot water. Insoluble in ethanol and organic solvents.
pH (1% solution): 6.0 - 8.0
Viscosity Range: 5 - 100,000 cps (varies depending on the application)
Thermogel Properties: It turns into a gel at 50-55°C and dissolves when it cools.
Decomposition Temperature: Decomposition begins at around 225-230°C (there is no defined melting point).
Stability: Stable in the pH range of 3-11, resistant to enzymes.
Product Name: Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose
CAS No.: 9004-65-3
Molecular Formula: C3H8O2.xCH4O.xUnspecified
Molecular Weight: 59.08708
EC Number: 220-971-6
HScode: 39129000
Categories: Bulk Drug Intermediates
XLogP3: 0.00000
Appearance: White to cream powder
Density: 1.326 g/cm3
Melting Point: 225-230 °C
Water Solubility: H2O: 50 mg/mL, clear to very faintly turbid, faintly yellow
Storage Conditions: Hypromellose powder is a stable material, although it is hygroscopic after drying.
Solutions are stable at pH 3–11.
FIRST AID MEASURES of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
HANDLING and STORAGE of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of E464 HYDROXYPROPYL METHYL CELLULOSE:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
