Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium, abbreviated as CMC Sodium, is a chemically modified derivative of cellulose. It is a non-toxic, tasteless, and colorless powder widely used in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, industrial, and other fields. CMC Sodium is a highly water-soluble polymer, and its aqueous solution exhibits excellent viscosity and gel-forming properties, making it versatile in various applications.
1. Physical and Chemical Properties
Appearance: White to off-white powder
Chemical Formula: [C6H7O2(OH)2OCH2COONa]n
Molecular Weight: Depending on the viscosity grade of CMC Sodium
Solubility: Highly soluble in water, forming colloidal solutions in cold water
Thermal Stability: CMC Sodium maintains viscosity and stability even at elevated temperatures
2. Key Features and Applications
2.1 Key Features
Excellent Thickening: CMC Sodium can form viscous solutions in water, allowing for adjustment of solution viscosity and rheology. It is commonly used as a thickening and adhesive agent.
Good Water Retention: CMC Sodium has the ability to absorb a large amount of water, making it suitable as a humectant and stabilizer in the food and cosmetics industries.
Gel-Forming Properties: Aqueous solutions of CMC Sodium can form gels, which find applications in pharmaceutical and food products such as capsules, lubricants, etc.
2.2 Applications
Pharmaceuticals: Used as a coating agent and stabilizer for drug capsules, a viscous agent for eye drops, and a thickener for topical formulations.
Food Industry: Utilized as an emulsifier, thickener, adhesive, and stabilizer in products like sauces, ice creams, bread, and more.
Cosmetics: Adjusts the viscosity of cosmetics, enhancing product stability and moisturizing properties.
Industrial Applications: Serves as a thickener and dispersant in oil well drilling fluids, pulp production, and textile industries.
3. Safety
CMC Sodium is generally considered a relatively safe chemical with no harmful effects on the human body when used and handled properly. However, as with any chemical, it is essential to follow the relevant safety measures and guidelines and read and adhere to the safety data sheets and operating manuals before use.
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