Product line
Hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC)
Product overview
What HEMC is
HEMC delivers the water retention and thickening of HPMC with a higher thermal gelation temperature, which makes it the preferred ether for hot-site tile adhesive and gypsum-based plasters. The same chemistry is sold as MHEC in some markets — both names refer to methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose.
Benefits
Key benefits
Higher thermal gel temperature than standard HPMC
Stable water retention at elevated site temperatures
Same production line and QC regime as our HPMC grades
Applications
Typical applications
- Tile adhesive
- Gypsum plaster
- Cement mortar
- Wall putty
Key facts
HEMC at a glance
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 9032-42-2 |
| HS code | 3912.39 |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Pack sizes | 25 kg · 12.5 kg · 6.25 kg · 1,000 kg jumbo bag |
The HS code is the international 6-digit code; destination customs classification governs. Pack sizes are the standard range — other sizes are quoted on request.
Packaging & loading
How HEMC ships
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pack sizes | 25 kg · 12.5 kg · 6.25 kg · 1,000 kg jumbo bag |
| 20′ FCL — loose | 13–14 t — estimated |
| 20′ FCL — palletised | 12 t (20 pallets × 600 kg) — estimated |
| Custom printing | Available on all pack sizes; artwork design free of charge |
Loading figures are for a 20-foot container. Exact quantity depends on pallet pattern and on how the bags are stacked — we confirm it against your order. Figures marked estimated are converted from the measured bulk volume.
Part of ALCellu's 60,000 t/yr production capacity.
FAQ
Questions buyers ask about HEMC
What is HEMC used for?
HEMC is a methyl cellulose ether for tile adhesive, gypsum plaster, cement mortar and wall putty. Its thermal gelation temperature is higher than a standard HPMC, so a fresh mix holds its water longer on a hot site before the ether separates out. The chemistry is CAS 9032-42-2 and it is supplied as a white to off-white powder.
Is HEMC the same product as MHEC?
Yes — HEMC and MHEC are two names for the same ether, methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. Tenders in Europe and North America usually say HEMC, while buyers in Asia and South America tend to specify MHEC. We list both names so your purchase specification matches the word your market uses; the grade behind the two names is identical.
How is HEMC packed and shipped?
HEMC ships in 25 kg, 12.5 kg and 6.25 kg bags or 1,000 kg jumbo bags. Custom printing is available on all pack sizes and the artwork design is free of charge. The minimum order is 1 metric ton. A 20-foot container takes 13–14 t loose or 12 t on pallets. Converted from packed volume per tonne; confirm the load per order. A free sample is available so you can run a trial mix before ordering.
Ask for the HEMC TDS and a free sample
Tell us the system you are formulating and the standard you work to. We reply with the TDS, the pack sizes and the loading figure for your quantity.