Product Name: Ethyl Cellulose (EC)
CAS Number: 9004-57-3
Date: March 01, 2025

General Description

Ethyl Cellulose (EC) is a white to off-white, free-flowing powder derived from cellulose, where some hydroxyl groups on the repeating glucose units are substituted with ethyl ether groups. It is a non-toxic, hydrophobic polymer that is insoluble in water but soluble in various organic solvents. EC is widely used as a film-former, binder, thickener, and stabilizer in pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and industrial applications.

Typical Applications

  • Pharmaceuticals: Tablet coatings, controlled-release matrices
  • Food Industry: Emulsifier (E462), protective coating for ingredients
  • Cosmetics: Thickener in nail polish, hair products
  • Industrial: Binder in ceramics, coatings for paper, inks, adhesives
  • Specialty Coatings: Hot-melt adhesives, transfer inks

Technical Specifications

PropertyValue
AppearanceWhite to off-white powder
Ethoxyl Content45.5-46.8(w/w)48.0–49.5% (w/w) (standard grade)
Moisture Content≤ 3.0%
Ash Content≤ 0.4%
Bulk Density300–500 g/L
Particle Size90% passes through 100 mesh
Viscosity4–300 cP (5% in toluene/ethanol 80:20 at 25°C, varies by grade)
Glass Transition Temp (Tg)130–133°C
SolubilityInsoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, toluene, ethyl acetate, chloroform
Chloride (%)<0.1
Heavy metals (ppm)≤20
Arsenic (ppm)≤3

Performance Properties

  • Film Formation: Forms tough, flexible, transparent films with good barrier properties.
  • Solubility: Soluble in organic solvents like alcohols, ethers, and chlorinated hydrocarbons; insoluble in water, glycerin, and propylene glycol.
  • Thermal Stability: Thermoplastic, stable up to ~150°C; burns out cleanly in high-temperature applications (e.g., ceramics).
  • Adhesion: Excellent adhesion to substrates like paper, plastic, and metal foils.
  • Hydrophobicity: Protects moisture-sensitive materials in coatings and encapsulates.

Storage and Handling

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place (5–30°C) in tightly sealed containers, away from moisture and heat sources.
  • Shelf Life: Minimum 24 months under proper storage conditions.
  • Packaging: 25 kg multi-layer paper bags with moisture-proof lining or fiber drums.

Safety Information

  • Non-hazardous under normal handling conditions.
  • Avoid dust inhalation; use a dust mask and gloves during handling.
  • Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety and disposal instructions.

Usage Guidelines

  • Dissolution: Dissolve in a solvent mixture (e.g., 80:20 toluene/ethanol) at 5–20% concentration, depending on desired viscosity.
  • Typical Dosage:
    • Coatings: 2–10% of formulation
    • Binders: 1–5% in dry mix
    • Thickeners: Adjust based on rheology needs
  • Processing: Compatible with hot-melt processes; avoid excessive moisture during application.

Notes

  • Viscosity grades (e.g., 4 cP, 10 cP, 100 cP) and ethoxyl content (e.g., 45–49.5%) vary by supplier and application. Specify grade for exact performance (e.g., ETHOCEL™ Standard 10, 100).
  • Food-grade EC complies with FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) and EU regulations (E462).