Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)
Sodium salt of cellulose derivative. Thickening agent.
Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a water-soluble cellulose derivative, typically derived from plant-based cellulose fibers. It is used as a sodium salt in a wide range of applications due to its ability to thicken, stabilize, and emulsify, making it a common ingredient in food products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and textiles. CMC is valued for its versatility and functional properties in various industries.
Energy Sector
In the energy sector, Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is utilized as a drilling fluid additive, serving as a viscosifier and fluid loss control agent. It is also used in hydraulic fracturing fluids to enhance viscosity, suspend solids, and reduce fluid loss. In well cementing operations, CMC improves cement slurry properties and minimizes fluid migration. Its rheological properties and water-solubility make CMC a valuable ingredient in oil and gas applications, aiding in efficient drilling and production processes.
Pharmaceutical
Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry as a tablet binder, providing cohesive properties for tablet manufacturing. It also acts as a disintegrant, promoting rapid dissolution of tablets for effective drug release. Additionally, CMC serves as a suspending agent in liquid medications to uniformly disperse insoluble drug particles. Its critical roles as a binder, disintegrant, and suspending agent make CMC a vital ingredient in pharmaceutical formulations, ensuring quality and performance of oral solid and liquid dosage forms.
Food
In the food industry, Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is utilized as a versatile food additive. It acts as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in a wide range of processed foods, dairy products, sauces, dressings, and beverages. CMC helps to improve texture, viscosity, and stability of food formulations, enhance mouthfeel, and prevent phase separation. It is also used in gluten-free and reduced-fat food products. Its ability to enhance food properties and provide desirable functional characteristics makes CMC a valuable ingredient in the food industry.
CAS No.: 9004-32-4