Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Distributor in India
HPMC Exporter & Supplier in India
HPMC (Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) is a water-soluble polymer that is made from cellulose, an organic material found in plant cell walls. HPMC is ultimately synthesized from modified cellulose through methyl and hydroxypropyl modification, where the chemical structure makes it multifactorial across various disciplines. In the prepared food or other food-related industry, HPMC is largely utilized as a thickening agent, binding agent, or stabilizing agent.
HTMC Group is a leading Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) manufacturer in India, supplying premium-grade cellulose ethers for various industries. As a reliable HPMC supplier in India and a well-known hydroxypropyl methylcellulose distributor in India, we carefully produce each batch of HPMC to ensure it meets rigorous international quality, consistency, and performance standards. HTMC Group has world-class manufacturing facilities and quality controls in place to provide quality HPMC for the pharmaceutical, construction, food and industrial sectors for usage in specialty products for manufacturing.
HPMC Manufacturing Process Overview
The production of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose at HTMC Group follows a precise process to ensure high purity and uniform quality:
1. Raw Material Preparation
The process begins with refined cotton cellulose, which serves as the base raw material. This natural polymer is first cleaned, dried, and pulverized to ensure a uniform particle size and to remove impurities.
2. Alkalization
The dried cellulose is treated with a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to activate the hydroxyl groups on the cellulose backbone. This process, known as alkalization, swells the cellulose structure and prepares it for etherification.
- Key Reaction: Cellulose + NaOH → Alkali Cellulose
- Conditions: Controlled temperature and time to optimize reactivity
3. Etherification
In this critical step, methyl chloride (CH₃Cl) and propylene oxide (C₃H₆O) are introduced under pressure in a closed reactor. These chemicals react with the alkali cellulose to substitute hydroxyl groups with methoxy (-OCH₃) and hydroxypropyl (-CH₂CHOHCH₃) groups.
Main Reactions:
- Alkali Cellulose + Methyl Chloride → Methyl Cellulose
- Methyl Cellulose + Propylene Oxide → Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)
Outcome: The degree of substitution (DS) and molar substitution (MS) are carefully controlled to achieve the desired properties (viscosity, solubility, gel temperature, etc.).
4. Neutralization & Washing
After etherification, the mixture is neutralized using an acid (often acetic acid or hydrochloric acid) to remove residual alkali. The product is then thoroughly washed with hot water or organic solvents to remove salts, byproducts, and unreacted chemicals.
5. Purification and Drying
The purified HPMC slurry is dried in a vacuum or hot-air drying system to remove moisture while preserving the integrity of the final product. This step is critical to achieving a consistent moisture content and preventing degradation.
6. Milling, Quality Control & Packaging
The dried HPMC is milled to the required particle size and undergoes strict quality control testing, including viscosity, moisture, pH, and purity. Finally, the product is packed in moisture-resistant bags or drums and stored under clean, dry conditions for distribution.
Applications & Uses of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)
Pharmaceuticals: Binder, film-coating agent, and controlled-release matrix in tablets and capsules.
Construction: Enhances water retention, workability, and adhesion in tile adhesives and plasters.
Food Industry: Thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in sauces, desserts, and low-fat foods.
Personal Care: Thickener and film-former in creams, shampoos, and cosmetics.
Paints & Coatings: Controls viscosity and stabilizes pigments for smooth application.
Detergents & Cleaners: Improves thickness, stability, and foaming in household products.
Technical Specifications of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)
| Parameter | Typical Range / Value | Description / Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white powder | Indicates purity and uniformity |
| Viscosity (2% aqueous solution at 20°C) | 5 – 100,000 mPa·s (grade-dependent) | Controls thickening and film-forming properties |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 5.0% | Affects stability and flow |
| pH (2% aqueous solution) | 5.0 – 8.0 | Ensures product stability |
| Methoxy Content (%) | 19 – 24% | Degree of methyl substitution |
| Hydroxypropyl Content (%) | 4 – 12% | Degree of hydroxypropyl substitution |
| Ash Content | ≤ 5.0% | Residual inorganic matter |
| Bulk Density | 0.35 – 0.60 g/cm³ | Packaging and handling considerations |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 20 ppm | Safety limit for contaminants |
| Microbial Limits | Meets pharmacopeial standards | Ensures hygiene and product safety |
Product Packing Details
HTMC Group provides HPMC in safe and durable packaging to maintain product integrity:
Package Sizes: 25 kg / 50 kg bags
Package Type: Multi-layer paper bags with inner polyethylene liner
Bulk Supply: Available in jumbo bags and custom packaging on request
Safe Handling and Storage
For maintaining the quality and safety of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose:
Store in a dry, cool area, away from sunlight and humidity.
Keep packaging sealed tightly after use to prevent contamination.
Handle with care to avoid dust formation and inhalation.
Shelf life can be extended by storing below 30°C in dry conditions.
Why HTMC Group Is the Preferred HPMC Supplier in India
HTMC Group has established itself as the go-to Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) supplier in India by offering only high-quality products, advanced technology and stringent quality checks. As a prominent HPMC manufacturer in India, we offer unique grades of HPMC manufactured for different applications in multiple industries, including pharmaceuticals, construction, food and personal care and industrial applications. Our products are compliant with global standards and backed by a robust supply chain and customer promotions and customer service to guarantee super performance and delivery in every batch. With a commitment to innovation, flexible packaging and technical support, HTMC Group is the trusted Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose distributor in India.
Powder mesh available
100
200
300
400
500
600
Packing Available
25kg Packing Bag
50kg Packing Bag
500/100kg Jumbo Packing Bag
Get in touch with us!
