Coalescing Solvents
| Formula: | [C₆H₇O₂(OH)₃₋ₓ(OCH₃)ₓ]ₙ (general structure, varies by substitution) |
| CAS Number: | 9004-32-4 (CMC); 9004-65-3 (HPMC); 9004-62-0 (HEC); 9004-67-5 (MC); 9004-57-3 (EC) |
| EC Number (EINECS): | Not assigned (polymeric substance) |
| HS Code: | 39123900 (for methyl cellulose & derivatives) |
| UN Number: | Not classified as dangerous goods |
| IUPAC Name: | Cellulose, ether derivatives (varies by type) |
| Also Known As: | Methylcellulose (MC); Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC); Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC); Ethylcellulose (EC); Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | Variable (depends on substitution & degree of polymerization) |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | White to off-white powder/granules |
| Odor: | Odorless |
| Solubility: | Soluble or dispersible in water (varies) |
| pH (1% solution): | 6.0–8.0 (grade dependent) |
| Purity, %: | ≥99 |
| Grades Available: | Pharmaceutical, Food, Industrial |
| Packaging: | 25kg bags, 500kg jumbo bags |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Used in water-based paints, coatings, inks, adhesives to aid film formation
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Improves latex particle coalescence in low-VOC systems
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Enhances durability, gloss, and resistance of coatings
Secondary Applications
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Additives in construction chemicals (plasters, sealants, putties)
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Used in textile finishes and leather coatings
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Employed in specialty printing inks
End Industries Served: Paints & Coatings, Adhesives, Printing Inks, Construction Chemicals, Textiles, Leather, Industrial Finishes
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Generally low hazard; classification depends on specific solvent
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H319: Causes serious eye irritation
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H315: Causes skin irritation (for some grades)
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H335: May cause respiratory irritation (vapors at high concentrations)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
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P261: Avoid breathing vapors/mists
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P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water
Storage Conditions
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Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area
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Protect from heat and direct sunlight
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Keep containers tightly sealed
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Not classified as dangerous goods (for most common coalescents)
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IMDG: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IATA: Not classified as dangerous goods
Regulatory Information
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REACH Status (EU): Registered (depending on solvent)
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FDA Approval: Not intended for direct food contact unless specified grade
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ISO Certification: Available on request (ISO 9001 manufacturing)
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VOC Regulations: Low-VOC and VOC-free coalescents available (compliant with EU & US EPA regulations)