seals and wipers




1. Hydration and Swelling Upon contact with water, HEC molecules absorb water and swell, which increases the distance between the polymer chains. This swelling is crucial as it creates a three-dimensional network that impedes the flow of liquid, resulting in higher viscosity. The degree of thickening is influenced by the concentration of HEC in the solution; higher concentrations lead to more significant thickening effects.
hydroxyethyl cellulose thickening mechanism

The increase in viscosity with concentration can be attributed to the entanglement of polymer chains and the formation of a three-dimensional network structure as the HEC concentration rises. This network traps water molecules, leading to a thickening effect, which is beneficial in many applications. For instance, in the construction industry, HEC is often added to mortars and tile adhesives to improve workability and reduce water loss. A more viscous solution ensures that these materials remain workable longer, enhancing their application performance.
hydroxyethyl cellulose viscosity concentration
