HPMC (Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose) product is divided into modified and unmodified types. It has differences between the craftsmanship and application.

The craftsmanship difference between the two types:

In terms of technology: Modified HPMC is mainly surface treated with glyoxal and add other additives. It quickly disperses when encountering cold water and disappears into the water. At this time, the liquid has no viscosity because HPMC is only dispersed in the water without real dissolution. In about 2 minutes, the viscosity of the liquid gradually increases and forms a transparent, viscous colloid.

For unmodified HPMC, there is no surface treatment with glyoxal. It clumps together when encountering cold water, but can quickly disperse and disappear in hot water. When the temperature drops to a certain temperature, the viscosity slowly appears until a transparent and viscous colloid is formed. The reason why unmodified HPMC clumps together when encountering cold water is that when the cellulose powder outside encounters cold water, it immediately becomes viscous and thickens into a transparent colloid. The cellulose inside is surrounded by the colloid before it comes into contact with water, still in powder form, but will slowly melt away.

Differences in application areas between modified and non-modified HPMC:

Modified HPMC has a wider range of applications. It can be used in mortar, liquid glue, paint, and laundry detergent. There are no taboos. However, the water retention and stability are not as good as unmodified products. In most mortar fields, unmodified HPMC is recommended. But for special dry-mixed mortar products, such as C2 grade tile adhesive and gypsum base mortar, modified HPMC is more suitable. Modified HPMC will enhance some of the advantages of HPMC, such as delayed dissolution, anti-aging, extended open time, anti-slip, etc.

Non-modified HPMC is only suitable for most mortar products. In practical applications, there is no need to use hot water, because putty powder or mortar is a solid powder. After dry mixing, the cellulose is separated by other materials. When it encounters water, it immediately becomes viscous and will not clump. Non-modified cellulose can only be used in dry-mixed mortars. In liquid glues and paints, clumping will occur and cannot be used.