Nitrocellulose

Nitrocellulose (CAS 9004-70-0), also known as Celloidin in certain specialty applications, is a nitrated cellulose polymer used as a film-forming binder and rheology modifier across coatings, printing inks, and adhesive systems.

Its rapid solvent release and hard, glossy film formation make it a primary resin choice where fast drying and surface clarity are commercial priorities. In flexographic and gravure printing inks, it provides fast-drying films.

These abrasion-resistant films are required for flexible packaging printed on films, foils, and paper substrates. Coatings formulators incorporate it into wood lacquers and leather finishes where a hard surface must cure quickly.

In adhesive and sealant systems, it functions as a binding agent in contact cements and specialty bonding products for leather goods and footwear manufacturing. It ensures high-gloss finishes under production line conditions.

Aerospace and defense applications include propellant formulations and pyrotechnic compositions. In these sectors, its controlled burn characteristics meet stringent performance specifications for specialized industrial use.

Nitrocellulose is supplied as alcohol-wetted chips, flakes, or isopropanol-wetted paste to meet transport safety requirements. Standard grades are differentiated by nitrogen content and viscosity for various applications.

Industrial and lacquer grades are the most commercially prevalent options available today. Technical and specialty grades are available to meet specific ink, coating, or propellant formulation requirements for global manufacturers.