Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a multifunctional polymer compound widely used in many fields such as construction, food, medicine and cosmetics. In the detergent industry, HPMC can significantly improve the performance of detergents due to its unique physical and chemical properties.

1.Physical and chemical properties of HPMC

HPMC is a non-ionic cellulose ether with the following important properties:
Solubility: HPMC is soluble in cold water, forming a uniform transparent or milky white solution.
Viscosity adjustment: The viscosity of HPMC solution can be adjusted by changing its concentration, which makes it widely applicable in different types of detergent formulations.
Moisturizing properties: HPMC has good moisturizing properties and can prevent detergent drying.
Film-forming properties: HPMC can form a protective film on the surface of objects to improve the cleaning effect.
Stability: HPMC has good tolerance to acids, alkalis and electrolytes, and can exist stably in various washing environments.

2. The mechanism of action of HPMC in detergents

thickener
As a thickener, HPMC can increase the viscosity of the detergent, making it easier to coat and stay on the stain surface during use, thereby enhancing the washing effect. The function of the thickener can also prevent the detergent from stratifying during storage and use, ensuring its uniformity and stability.

stable suspension agent
HPMC has good suspension stability, which can effectively prevent solid particles in detergents from settling and ensure that active ingredients are evenly distributed during the washing process, thereby improving washing efficiency. For example, in detergents containing abrasive particles, HPMC can maintain an even distribution of particles and improve stain removal capabilities.

Film former
HPMC acts as a film-forming agent in detergents and can form a protective film on the surface of fabrics or other objects. This not only helps prevent the re-deposition of dirt, but also makes the cleaned object surface smoother and glossier. For example, in car cleaners, the protective film formed by HPMC can reduce the adhesion of water marks and dirt, keeping the car surface clean and bright.

moisturizer
In detergent formulations, HPMC acts as a humectant to prevent drying and caking of detergent ingredients and maintain good performance. At the same time, HPMC can also help the fabric retain a certain amount of moisture during the washing process, reduce fiber damage, and extend the service life of the fabric.

3. Synergistic effect of surfactants

HPMC works synergistically with surfactants to significantly enhance the detergent’s stain removal capabilities. Surfactants help detergents penetrate and dissolve dirt by reducing the surface tension of water, while HPMC further improves the cleaning effect of detergents by enhancing their adhesion and suspension stability.

4. Application of HPMC in different types of detergents

laundry detergent
In laundry detergents, HPMC can increase the viscosity of the detergent and enhance adhesion to stains. At the same time, HPMC’s moisturizing and film-forming properties can protect fabric fibers, prevent damage caused by friction during washing, and form a protective film after washing to reduce the re-adhesion of dirt.

dish washer
In dishwashing liquids, the thickening effect of HPMC can make it easier for the detergent to adhere to the surface of the tableware, improving the cleaning effect. Its moisturizing properties prevent dishwashing liquid from drying out, ensuring good performance even after long periods of storage.

multipurpose cleaner
Among multi-purpose cleaners, the suspension stability and film-forming properties of HPMC are particularly important. It not only prevents solid particles in the detergent from settling, but also forms a protective film on the surface after cleaning, providing a long-lasting cleaning effect.

Through its unique physical and chemical properties, HPMC plays multiple roles in detergents such as thickening, stable suspension, film formation and moisturizing, significantly enhancing the performance of detergents. With the continuous innovation of detergent formulas, the application prospects of HPMC will be broader, providing more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions for household and industrial cleaning.