STDHEC Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Ether for Coatings
Category：Paint chemicals
Introduction
It is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer made from natural cellulose. It is a white or slightly yellow powder that is easily dispersed and dissolved in cold or hot water to produce solutions of different viscosities. The product is mainly used as rheology modifier, thickener, water retaining agent, suspending agent, binder, stabilizer, and protective colloid.
Product Overview
STDHEC is a high-performance hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) ether specifically engineered for water-based coatings, providing excellent thickening, rheology control, and stability. It enhances paint performance by improving sag resistance, brushability, and spatter resistance while maintaining superior water retention and compatibility with various coating additives.
Basic Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white free-flowing powder | Visual inspection |
| Bulk Density (g/cm³) | 0.35–0.45 | ISO 60 |
| Moisture Content | ≤5.0% | Karl Fischer titration |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | 6.0–8.5 | Potentiometric method |
| Solubility | Cold water-soluble | Dissolution test |
Key Performance Characteristics in Coatings
| Feature | Benefit in Coatings |
|---|---|
| High thickening efficiency | Reduces formulation costs with low dosage |
| Excellent sag resistance | Prevents dripping on vertical surfaces |
| Pseudoplastic rheology | Smooth application, easy brush/roll workability |
| Superior water retention | Prevents premature drying, improving film formation |
| Good electrolyte tolerance | Stable in high-ionic-strength formulations |
Recommended Dosage in Coating Applications
| Coating Type | Function | Dosage Range (% by weight) |
|---|---|---|
| Latex paints | Thickener & stabilizer | 0.2–0.6% |
| Interior wall coatings | Improves brushability & leveling | 0.3–0.8% |
| Exterior architectural coatings | Enhances weather resistance | 0.4–1.0% |
| Textured coatings | Controls consistency & structure | 0.5–1.2% |
| Industrial coatings | Prevents settling & syneresis | 0.3–0.7% |
Solution Properties (2% Aqueous Solution, 25°C)
| Parameter | Typical Value | Test Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Viscosity (Brookfield) | 3000–5000 mPa·s | Spindle #4. 20 rpm |
| Surface tension | 45–55 mN/m | Du Noüy ring method |
| Transparency | ≥85% | Spectrophotometric analysis |
| Gelation temperature | >80°C | Visual observation |
Storage & Handling Guidelines
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Storage temperature | <30°C, dry environment |
| Shelf life | 24 months in sealed packaging |
| Handling precautions | Avoid dust formation; use PPE if necessary |
| Packaging | 25 kg moisture-resistant bags |
| Compatibility | Works with most coating additives (dispersants, defoamers, etc.) |
Conclusion
STDHEC hydroxyethyl cellulose ether is an essential rheology modifier for water-based coatings, delivering optimal viscosity control, application performance, and stability. Its high efficiency and compatibility make it ideal for architectural, industrial, and specialty coatings.
Factory & Shipment
