Product Specialty Additives

Rheology Modifier (HPMC)

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) cellulose ether for construction and water-based coating systems — improves water retention, workability, sag control, and open time across drymix formulations.

Packaging: 25 kg bags (typical) • pallets • export packing on request
Documentation: SDS / TDS / COA on request
Grade selection depends on viscosity & application

If you share your formulation type (tile adhesive, plaster, skim coat, EIFS, gypsum, or coating) and target feel, we can recommend a suitable viscosity grade and dosage range.

What HPMC does in formulations

HPMC is a non-ionic cellulose ether used as a rheology modifier and water-retention agent in cementitious, gypsum-based, and water-based polymer systems. In drymix mortars, it helps keep water available for hydration and improves application feel. In coatings, it can assist with viscosity build and flow/leveling depending on grade.

Water retention

Reduces water loss to porous substrates, supporting proper cement hydration and reducing premature drying.

Workability & open time

Improves trowelability and extends open time — critical for tile adhesives and skim coats.

Sag & slip control

Supports anti-sag properties and can improve slip resistance in vertical applications (grade dependent).

Selection logic
Grade selection is mainly driven by viscosity, substitution level, and dissolution profile — matched to your binder system and target application feel.

Applications

Typical usage patterns. Share your binder type, filler level, and performance targets and we’ll align a suitable grade.

  • Tile adhesives: improved open time, slip resistance, and wetting
  • Skim coats & plasters: smoother application, reduced cracking risk from rapid drying
  • Cement renders/repair mortars: consistent workability and water control
  • Gypsum systems: better handling, reduced water separation (grade dependent)
  • Water-based coatings: viscosity build and stability contribution (depending on grade)

Why procurement teams buy it

Consistency across batches, controlled viscosity range, predictable dissolution, and documentation-ready supply.

Why formulators choose it

Balance of water retention and rheology with application feel — especially in high-filler drymix systems.

How it’s used

Typically dry-blended into powder mixes; for coatings, dispersed per supplier procedure to avoid fish-eyes/lumps.

Grade selection & performance levers

HPMC performance is influenced by viscosity grade, substitution level, and dissolution behavior. These parameters affect water retention, thickening efficiency, and handling. We can help map a grade to your system and test targets.

Ask for a grade recommendation

Viscosity grade

Commonly offered across a wide viscosity range (low/medium/high). Higher viscosity generally increases water retention and sag control but can change feel and required water.

Dissolution profile

Surface-treated grades improve dispersion and reduce lumping in drymix systems. For coatings, controlled hydration helps maintain flow/leveling and avoid fisheyes.

System compatibility

Cement/gypsum systems, polymer modifiers, and fillers all influence the “best” grade. Share your binder ratio and performance needs for a tailored suggestion.

Formulation note
For tile adhesives and EIFS, HPMC is often paired with redispersible polymer powder (RDP) to balance adhesion, flexibility, and application feel.

Typical specifications & formats

Values depend on grade and customer requirements. Confirm details on quotation and supplied COA/TDS.

Quality & documentation

Product type

Cellulose ether (Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose / HPMC)

Appearance

White to off-white powder / granules (grade dependent)

Viscosity (typical)

Multiple grades available (e.g., low/medium/high viscosity). Specify your target or reference grade.

Moisture

Controlled moisture content per grade; confirm on COA for the supplied batch.

Particle size

Grade dependent; optimized for dry blending and dispersion.

Packaging

25 kg bags (typical), palletized; export packing options available on request.

For standardization, you can request a pre-approval COA and a retained reference sample program (lane dependent).

Handling & storage

HPMC is hygroscopic and should be protected from moisture to maintain flow and performance. Store in sealed original packaging in a cool, dry area, away from direct humidity exposure.

Storage

Keep sealed; avoid high humidity. Re-seal opened bags immediately.

Dust control

Use standard powder handling controls and local exhaust ventilation where appropriate.

Batch consistency

Request COA and agreed test parameters for viscosity and moisture for repeat procurement.

Request a quotation

Send your application and target properties and we’ll respond with a grade-matched proposal and commercial offer.

  • Application (tile adhesive / skim coat / plaster / EIFS / coating)
  • Target viscosity range or current reference grade
  • Monthly volume + packaging (25 kg bags typical)
  • Delivery destination + documents required (SDS/COA/TDS)
Email us

If you have a current HPMC grade, share its viscosity, intended application, and any test standards you follow.