Hydroxypropyl starch

Hydroxypropyl starch (CAS 9049-76-7) is a chemically modified starch produced by reacting native starch with propylene oxide to introduce hydroxypropyl substituent groups. It is commercially available under trade names including Hamaco 267, Solfarex A 8, Perfiller 101, and Aquaphase PPT, and is also referred to broadly as modified starch.

In food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, hydroxypropyl starch functions as a rheology modifier by increasing viscosity and improving freeze-thaw stability in aqueous systems, reducing retrogradation compared to native starch. In personal care formulations, it acts as an emulsion stabiliser, helping to maintain uniform dispersion of oil and water phases across varying temperatures and pH conditions.

Hydroxypropyl starch is supplied as a dry powder and is subject to REACH registration requirements for European commerce. Grades intended for food contact applications are evaluated against relevant FCC specifications, while pharmaceutical-grade material may be assessed against compendial standards. Buyers should confirm grade suitability and documentation with the supplier prior to procurement.