Differences Between the Surface Treated and Non-Surface Treated KimaCell HPMC Products

KimaCell™ HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose) is a widely used cellulose ether that is known for its excellent water retention and workability-enhancing properties. It is commonly used in various applications, including construction, ceramics, and personal care products. One important aspect of HPMC production is the surface treatment of the cellulose ether. In this article, we will discuss the differences between surface-treated and non-surface treated KimaCell™ HPMC products.

Surface-Treated KimaCell™ HPMC Products Surface-treated KimaCell™ HPMC products are cellulose ethers that have been modified through a process known as surface treatment. This process involves adding a hydrophobic layer to the surface of the cellulose ether particles. The hydrophobic layer is typically made up of fatty acids or other similar compounds.

The addition of the hydrophobic layer changes the surface characteristics of the cellulose ether particles. This results in improved water resistance and dispersibility of the cellulose ether particles. Surface-treated KimaCell™ HPMC products are particularly useful in applications where water resistance is important, such as in tile adhesives or external insulation finishing systems.

Another benefit of surface-treated KimaCell™ HPMC products is their improved workability. The surface treatment process enhances the lubricity of the cellulose ether particles, making them easier to disperse and reducing the amount of air entrained in the mixture. This results in a more consistent and smooth texture, which is important in applications such as skim coating or cement renders.

Non-Surface Treated KimaCell™ HPMC Products Non-surface treated KimaCell™ HPMC products are cellulose ethers that have not undergone surface treatment. These products are typically used in applications where water resistance is not a critical factor. Non-surface treated KimaCell™ HPMC products are widely used in applications such as paint, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Compared to surface-treated KimaCell™ HPMC products, non-surface treated products typically have lower water resistance and are less dispersible. This means that they may be more prone to clumping or settling in aqueous systems. However, non-surface treated KimaCell™ HPMC products still offer excellent water retention and workability-enhancing properties, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.

Choosing the Right KimaCell™ HPMC Product When selecting the appropriate KimaCell™ HPMC product for a specific application, it is important to consider factors such as water resistance, workability, and dispersibility. If water resistance is critical, then a surface-treated KimaCell™ HPMC product may be the best choice. On the other hand, if water resistance is not a concern, then a non-surface treated product may be more appropriate.

Other factors to consider when selecting a KimaCell™ HPMC product include particle size, viscosity, and degree of substitution. Particle size and viscosity can affect the workability and dispersibility of the product, while the degree of substitution can affect the water retention properties.

In conclusion, the main differences between surface-treated and non-surface treated KimaCell™ HPMC products are their water resistance, dispersibility, and workability-enhancing properties. Surface-treated products offer improved water resistance and workability, while non-surface treated products are more commonly used in applications where water resistance is not a critical factor. When selecting a KimaCell™ HPMC product, it is important to consider factors such as water resistance, workability, and dispersibility, as well as particle size, viscosity, and degree of substitution.