Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a vital ingredient in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. In China, the demand for CMC has surged due to its versatile applications and unique properties. Understanding CMC’s role in these sectors is essential for manufacturers, researchers, and consumers alike.

This guide will delve into the production processes, quality standards, and market trends of CMC in China. Readers will gain insights into its applications, benefits, and regulatory considerations, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate this dynamic market effectively.

Additionally, we will explore the challenges and opportunities within the CMC industry, highlighting innovations and sustainability efforts. By the end of this guide, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and its significance in the Chinese market.

A Comprehensive Guide to Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) in China

Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) is a versatile and widely used cellulose derivative in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. As a professional supplier of CMC, companies like SINOCMC (www.sino-cmc.com) and Qingdao Tianya Chemical Co., Ltd. (www.Chinacarboxymethylcellulose.com) have established themselves as leaders in the market. This guide will delve into the technical features, types, and applications of CMC, providing a thorough understanding of this essential compound.

Technical Features of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose is known for its unique properties that make it suitable for various applications. Below is a comparison table highlighting its key technical features:

Feature	Description
Chemical Formula	C6H7NaO8
Appearance	White to cream-colored powder
Solubility	Soluble in water, forming a viscous solution
Viscosity	Ranges from 200 to 10,000 mPa.s depending on the grade
Degree of Substitution	Typically between 0.75 and 1.2
pH Level	6.5 to 8.5 for a 1% solution
Purity	≥ 99.5% for food-grade CMC
Moisture Content	≤ 8%
Microbiological Standards	Total plate count ≤ 1000 cfu/g, E. coli negative in 5 g

These features make CMC an excellent thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier, widely used in food products, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items.

Types of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose comes in various grades, each tailored for specific applications. Below is a comparison table of the different types of CMC:

Type	Application	Viscosity Range	Purity
Food Grade CMC	Used in food products like ice cream and sauces	200 – 10,000 mPa.s	≥ 99.5%
Pharmaceutical Grade CMC	Used in tablets and syrups	200 – 5,000 mPa.s	≥ 99.5%
Industrial Grade CMC	Used in detergents and paints	200 – 10,000 mPa.s	≥ 95%
Oil Drilling Grade CMC	Used in drilling fluids to stabilize boreholes	200 – 8,000 mPa.s	≥ 95%
Ceramic Grade CMC	Used in ceramics and tile manufacturing	200 – 10,000 mPa.s	≥ 95%

Each type of CMC is designed to meet specific industry standards and requirements, ensuring optimal performance in its respective application.

Applications of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose is utilized across various industries due to its multifunctional properties. Here are some of the primary applications:

Food Industry

In the food sector, CMC acts as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It is commonly found in products like ice cream, sauces, and gluten-free foods. Its ability to retain moisture and improve texture makes it a valuable ingredient.

Pharmaceutical Industry

CMC is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a binder and thickener in tablets and syrups. Its high purity level ensures safety and efficacy in medicinal applications.

Personal Care Products

In cosmetics and personal care products, CMC serves as a thickening agent and stabilizer in lotions, creams, and shampoos. It enhances the texture and consistency of these products.

Industrial Applications

CMC is widely used in various industrial applications, including detergents, paints, and ceramics. Its ability to improve viscosity and stability makes it essential in these sectors.

Oil Drilling

In the oil drilling industry, CMC is used to stabilize boreholes and reduce fluid loss. Its compatibility with other polymers enhances its effectiveness in drilling fluids.

Conclusion

Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) is a crucial ingredient in numerous industries, providing essential properties such as thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying. With suppliers like SINOCMC (www.sino-cmc.com), Qingdao Tianya Chemical Co., Ltd. (www.Chinacarboxymethylcellulose.com), and YuCMC (www.yucmc.com) leading the market, the demand for high-quality CMC continues to grow. Understanding the technical features and various types of CMC can help businesses make informed decisions about their ingredient choices.

FAQs

1. What is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)?
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) is a cellulose derivative used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in various industries, including food and pharmaceuticals.

2. What are the main applications of CMC?
CMC is used in food products, pharmaceuticals, personal care items, industrial applications, and oil drilling.

3. How is CMC produced?
CMC is produced by the carboxymethylation of cellulose, which involves treating cellulose with sodium hydroxide and chloroacetic acid.

4. Is CMC safe for consumption?
Yes, food-grade CMC is considered safe for consumption and is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by regulatory authorities.

5. Where can I find reliable suppliers of CMC?
Reliable suppliers of CMC include SINOCMC (www.sino-cmc.com), Qingdao Tianya Chemical Co., Ltd. (www.Chinacarboxymethylcellulose.com), and YuCMC (www.yucmc.com).