MHEC powder for Pakistan
MHEC powder - A High-Performance Additive for the Pakistani Building Industry
In Pakistan, the construction sector is rapidly growing, and there is an increasing demand for high-performance building materials. MHEC powder is a versatile additive that has found its way into the Pakistani construction industry and has become a popular choice among architects, engineers, and contractors.
Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC) powder is a chemical compound used in cement and concrete mixes to enhance their performance. By adding MHEC powder to a mix, the resulting construction material becomes more robust, durable, and resistant to oil, grease, and other chemicals.
One of the significant benefits of using MHEC powder is its water retention properties. During the mixing process, MHEC powder helps to absorb water within the cement mix, keeping it moist, and allowing the mixture to set up correctly. This water retention ability also helps to prevent shrinkage in concrete and cement, which is a common problem in the scorching heat and dry climate of Pakistan.
Moreover, MHEC powder improves the workability of the cement mix, making it easier to handle and spread. It also reduces the amount of air that gets trapped within the mix, which in turn, reduces the amount of surface defects on the finished material. As a result, the final finished product is of better quality and lasts longer.
MHEC Powder is perfect for environments where there is a high demand for solvent resistance, such as warehouses, factories, or industrial parks. Due to its versatility, it can also be applied in residential buildings, commercial structures, and infrastructure projects such as bridges and roads.
In conclusion, MHEC powder is an excellent addition to any cement or concrete mix. Its benefits are numerous, and its performance is of high standard. It is currently being used to enhance the quality of construction projects in countries such as Rwanda, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Indonesia, Malta, and now Pakistan. If you are planning a construction project in Pakistan, using MHEC powder could be the difference between a functional structure and a durable one.
Faq
What are the main raw materials of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)?
The viscosity of HPMC is inversely proportional to temperature, meaning that viscosity increases as temperature decreases. When we refer to the viscosity of a certain product, it generally refers to the measurement result of its 2% water solution at 20 degrees Celsius.
In practical applications, in regions with large temperature differences between summer and winter, it is advisable to use relatively lower viscosity during winter for better construction. Otherwise, at low temperatures, the viscosity of the cellulose increases, resulting in a heavier feel during application.
Medium viscosity: 75,000-100,000 (mainly used for putty)
Reason: Good water retention.
High viscosity: 150,000-200,000 (mainly used for polystyrene particle insulation mortar powder and foamed glass bead insulation mortar)
Reason: High viscosity, reduces mortar dusting and sagging, improves construction.
However, in general, higher viscosity provides better water retention. Therefore, many dry mortar manufacturers consider using medium-viscosity cellulose (75,000-100,000) instead of low-viscosity cellulose (20,000-40,000) to reduce the dosage and costs.
What is the main function of HPMC in putty powder and does it undergo a chemical reaction?
The viscosity of HPMC is inversely proportional to temperature, meaning that viscosity increases as temperature decreases. When we refer to the viscosity of a certain product, it generally refers to the measurement result of its 2% water solution at 20 degrees Celsius.
In practical applications, in regions with large temperature differences between summer and winter, it is advisable to use relatively lower viscosity during winter for better construction. Otherwise, at low temperatures, the viscosity of the cellulose increases, resulting in a heavier feel during application.
Medium viscosity: 75,000-100,000 (mainly used for putty)
Reason: Good water retention.
High viscosity: 150,000-200,000 (mainly used for polystyrene particle insulation mortar powder and foamed glass bead insulation mortar)
Reason: High viscosity, reduces mortar dusting and sagging, improves construction.
However, in general, higher viscosity provides better water retention. Therefore, many dry mortar manufacturers consider using medium-viscosity cellulose (75,000-100,000) instead of low-viscosity cellulose (20,000-40,000) to reduce the dosage and costs.
HPMC is a non-ionic type of cellulose ether. So, what does "non-ionic" mean?
Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose, in English: Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose, also known as HPMC or MHPC. Other names: Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose; Cellulose Hydroxypropyl Methyl Ether; Hypromellose; Cellulose, 2-hydroxypropylmethyl Cellulose ether; Cellulose hydroxypropyl methyl ether; Hyprolose.
Regarding the relationship between viscosity and temperature in HPMC (HPMC viscosity), what should be noted in practical applications?
In the application of HPMC in putty powder, it plays three roles: thickening, water retention, and facilitating construction. Thickening: Cellulose can thicken the mixture, maintain uniform suspension, and prevent sagging. Water retention: It slows down the drying process of putty powder and assists in the reaction of lime and calcium in water. Construction: Cellulose acts as a lubricant, improving the workability of the putty powder. HPMC does not participate in any chemical reactions; it only serves as an auxiliary agent. When putty powder is mixed with water and applied to the wall, a chemical reaction occurs because new substances are formed. However, if the putty powder is scraped off the wall, ground into powder, and reused, it is not suitable because a new substance (calcium carbonate) has already formed. The main components of lime and calcium powder are Ca(OH)2, CaO, and a small amount of CaCO3. The reaction can be represented as: CaO + H2O = Ca(OH)2 — Ca(OH)2 + CO2 = CaCO3 ↓ + H2O. Under the action of water and carbon dioxide in the air, lime and calcium carbonate are formed. HPMC only assists in water retention and the better reaction of lime and calcium; it does not participate in any reactions itself.