A non-ionic cellulose ether made from cotton and wood through alkalization and etherification. Similar to HPMC in nature, but the hydroxyethyl group makes HEMC easier to dissolve in water, more compatible with salt and higher in gel temperature.
HEMC acts as thickener, binder, water-retention agent, dispersant, suspending agent, emulsifier and stabilizer. It holds water in the mix long enough for full cement hydration and gives mortar the smooth, non-sag feel applicators expect.

| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical name | Hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC / MHEC) |
| CAS No. | 9032-42-2 |
| HS Code | 3912.39 (CN export 39123900) |
| EINECS | 618-528-0 |
| Form | White powder |
| Ionic type | Non-ionic |
| Viscosity (Brookfield LV, 2% aqueous, 20°C) | 18,000 ~ 70,000 mPa·s (per grade) |
| Moisture | ≤ 7.0% |
| Ash content | ≤ 5.0% |
| pH value | 4.0 ~ 8.0 |
| Gel temperature | Higher than HPMC (65 ~ 85°C, per grade) |
| Solubility | Readily dissolved in cold & hot water; good salt compatibility |
| Packaging | 25 kg PP woven bag with PE lining |
Values are typical ranges — exact specification sheets per grade are available on request.
Five standard grades covering tile adhesive and plastering mortar systems. Custom viscosity and gel temperature available on request.
| Grade | Viscosity (mPa·s, BK 2%) | Typical Characteristic | Tile Adhesive | Mortar / Plastering |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HE5515 | 18,000 ~ 22,000 | Good temperature resistance | ●●● | ●●● |
| HE6509 | 30,000 ~ 35,000 | High temperature resistance | ●●● | ●●● |
| HE7511 | 45,000 ~ 55,000 | High temperature resistance | ●●● | ●●● |
| HE8515 | 60,000 ~ 70,000 | High temperature resistance | ●●● | ●●● |
| HE9516 | 20,000 | High temperature resistance | ●●● | ●●● |
●●● = highly suitable. Other viscosities and customized specifications supplied on request.
HEMC performs like HPMC in most mortar systems, with its own rheology profile. We match viscosity and gel temperature to your local raw materials.
Extends open time and slip resistance so ceramic and porcelain tiles stay adjustable and locked in position.
Keeps gypsum plaster and skim coats workable and crack-free — ideal for machine and hand application.
Balances fluidity and anti-segregation so leveling mortars flow flat and stay uniform without bleeding.
A non-ionic thickener and stabilizer for wall putty, personal care, tile adhesive, mortar, honeycomb ceramic and coatings.

HEMC thickener with strong water retention for interior and exterior wall putty — methyl substitution extends open time and resists enzymatic thinning for a smoother trowel finish.
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Clear, non-ionic HEMC thickener for shampoos, body washes and lotions — stable clarity, good salt tolerance and a smooth, mild gel feel.
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HEMC water-retention and thickener for cement-based tile adhesive — longer open time, reliable non-sag and steady workability for ceramic and stone.
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HEMC builds cohesion and water retention in cement mortar and masonry — easier spreading, less sag and consistent hydration.
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HEMC binder and plasticizer for ceramic honeycomb extrusion — reliable green strength and clean, defect-free cell walls.
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HEMC rheology modifier for water-based latex paints, primers and texture coatings — anti-sag, anti-splash and smooth, even leveling.
Get a quote →Also widely used in: oil drilling fluids · gypsum plaster · toothpaste & daily chemicals · printing ink · textile printing & dyeing · paper & board coating · self-leveling · EIFS · suspension polymerization.
Tell us your application (e.g. tile adhesive, plastering mortar, self-leveling) and required viscosity — we will recommend the right grade.
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