CLUSTER 01 · CONSTRUCTIONLIVE

HPMC

HV construction grades

modified cellulose · repeat unit

At a glance

CAS9004-65-3

EC / LISTPolymer, no discrete EC number

HS / TARIC3912 39 85

REACHPolymer — exempt from registration under REACH Art. 2(9). Registration status of its monomers and reactants (Art. 6(3)) is confirmed for each supplier and stated on the SDS before first shipment.

PACK FORMAT25 kg multi-wall paper bags · 1 MT big-bag on request

What it does

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose — the cellulose ether that gives dry-mix mortars and tile adhesives their open time, water retention and workability. The single most price-sensitive line item in a tile-adhesive recipe.

Also known as

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose · Hypromellose · HPMC cellulose ether · modified cellulose ether · methyl hydroxypropyl cellulose (MHPC) · HPMC 75000 · HPMC 100000 · HPMC 150000 · HPMC 200000 · Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (DE) · idrossipropilmetilcellulosa (IT) · hydroxypropylméthylcellulose (FR) · CAS 9004-65-3 · CN 3912 39 85 · end-use standard EN 12004

Typical applications

Tile adhesives (C1 / C2 cementitious)
Cement-based renders and skim coats
Self-levelling underlayments (lower-viscosity grades, on request)
EIFS / ETICS base coats
Gypsum-based jointing compounds

Specification band

Viscosity (NDJ, 2% aq., 20 °C)75,000 – 200,000 mPa·s (HV grades)

Methoxy content19 – 30% (type stated on TDS)

Hydroxypropoxy4.0 – 12.0%

Moisture< 6%

Ash≤ 5%

Particle size100 mesh standard · 80 mesh available

Industry-typical published bands, measured on the NDJ method. Brookfield readings for the same lot are roughly two to three times lower, so state your method when you request. Producer-specific values on the COA issued per shipment.

Handling & packaging

Hygroscopic — store sealed below 25 °C and 60% RH
Shelf life 18–24 months in original sealed packaging
Not classified as hazardous for transport

Documents on file per shipment

Per-batch Certificate of Analysis (COA)Safety Data Sheet (SDS) in EU CLP formatTechnical Data Sheet (TDS) with viscosity and DS valuesREACH polymer status statement

Serica execution notes

Container loaded with desiccant liner; humidity logger on request.
Delivered pricing quoted to your plant; Incoterm and contracting structure confirmed per quotation.
Upon request, can be verified per lot: viscosity (2% aq.), methoxy content, ash, moisture — third-party lab (SGS or Intertek).

Frequently asked questions

Which viscosity grade do I need for tile adhesive?

Tile adhesives typically use surface-treated HPMC at 150,000–200,000 mPa·s (NDJ, 2% solution, 20 °C). Wall putty commonly uses 75,000–150,000 mPa·s. Always state the measurement method with the number.

Is 150,000 mPa·s on NDJ the same as 150,000 mPa·s on Brookfield?

No. For high-viscosity HPMC, NDJ readings run roughly two to three times higher than Brookfield RV readings for the same lot. Compare grades measured on the same method only.

Which customs code applies to HPMC imported into the EU?

HPMC falls under CN 3912 39 85, other cellulose ethers in primary forms. The code is confirmed for each shipment with the customs broker.

Does HPMC need REACH registration?

HPMC is a polymer and is exempt from registration under REACH Article 2(9). Registration status of its monomers and reactants (Art. 6(3)) is confirmed for each supplier and stated on the SDS before first shipment.

Why is ash content on every Certificate of Analysis?

Ash above 5% is the most common defect in lower-tier HPMC. It signals residual salt and less active polymer per kilogram, and can cause yellowing and weaker adhesion.