Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (CAS 9004-65-3), commercially known as HPMC and approved as food additive E464, is a cellulose-derived polymer. Also marketed as HPMC; E464.

Where is Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose used?

• Pharmaceuticals: excipient for tablet coating, controlled-release matrix systems and capsule shells, including vegetarian alternatives to gelatin
• Construction: tile adhesives, cement renders and dry-mix mortars, where it extends open time and improves workability
• Food: E464 stabilizes emulsions, controls texture in low-fat products and prevents moisture migration in baked goods
• Personal care: thickens shampoos, gels and ophthalmic solutions and provides a smooth, non-tacky film on skin and hair
• It functions as a thickener, binder and film-former, controlling viscosity and water retention.
• Used in gluten-free baked goods as a substitute for gluten.
• Solutions gel reversibly upon heating, allowing controlled increase in green strength of ceramic bodies.
• Used in fried foods to reduce oil absorption due to its resistance to oil migration.

Good to know: Technical-grade material is available for construction applications where pharmaceutical or food compliance is not required. Grades include USP/NF, Ph. Eur., BP and food-grade (FCC/E464-compliant) specifications.

Formulation notes

• Higher-viscosity grades are used when stronger water retention and anti-sag performance are required.
• Low-viscosity grades are used for fluid systems such as self-leveling materials.

Typical specification

• Accepted types must contain 19–30% methyl and 3–12% hydroxypropyl groups.
• Forms a gel upon heating with a gelation temperature of 75–90°C.

Regulatory status

• In the US, authorized as a food additive under 21 CFR 172.874.
• In the US, authorized for use in resinous and polymeric coatings under 21 CFR 175.300.
• In the US, authorized for use in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) articles under 21 CFR 177.1960.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Although non-toxic, it is flammable and can react strongly with oxidizing agents.
• Should be kept sealed away from humidity, stored in cool and dry conditions, and away from direct sunlight or fire sources.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.