Basic Information
CAS Number: 9004-57-3
Molecular Formula: C₂₃H₂₄N₆O₄ (Note: Some sources indicate a polymeric structure with variable molecular weight)
Molecular Weight: ~448.47 g/mol (polymer weight)
Synonyms: Ethocel, Aquacoat, Ethyl Cellulose EC, Cellulose Ethyl Ether
Regulatory Status:
FDA Approved: Yes (for food and pharmaceutical uses)
GMP Certified: Available in pharmaceutical grades
REACH Compliant: Yes
Physicochemical Properties
Appearance: White to slightly yellow, odorless powder or granules
Melting Point: 165–255°C (dependent on ethoxyl content; industrial grades: 165–185°C, high-viscosity grades: 240–255°C)
Density: 1.14–1.45 g/cm³ (at 25°C)
Solubility:
Water: Insoluble
Organic Solvents: Soluble in ethanol, methanol, acetone, toluene, and chloroform (depending on ethoxyl content)
Viscosity: Varies by grade (e.g., 48% ethoxyl: 8–12 mPa·s in toluene/isopropanol)
pH Stability: Neutral (5% solution in organic solvents)
Applications
Pharmaceuticals:
Tablet binders, coating agents for controlled-release formulations, and film coatings for extended drug delivery
Used in microencapsulation for oral and topical drug delivery
Industrial Uses:
Coatings (paints, inks, varnishes), adhesives, and insulating materials
Automotive and aerospace components (tough, low-temperature resistant)
Food & Cosmetics:
Food additives (thickeners, stabilizers), and protective coatings for vitamins
Personal care products (lotions, sunscreens)
Safety Data
Hazard Classifications:
GHS: Skin irritation (Category 3)
RTECS: FJ5950500
Toxicity:
Non-toxic, ADI not specified (FAO/WHO)
LD₅₀ (rat, oral): >5000 mg/kg
Handling Precautions:
Avoid inhalation of dust; wear protective gloves and eyewear
Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and heat
Regulatory Compliance
FDA: Approved for use in food, drugs, and cosmetics
EU: Complies with REACH Annex I/II
China: Listed in the National Essential Medicines List (pharmaceutical grades)
Production Methods
Alkali Treatment: Cotton linters or wood pulp are treated with NaOH to form alkali cellulose, then reacted with chloroethane (ClCH₂CH₃) to replace hydroxyl groups with ethoxy groups
Solvent-Based: Ethanol or acetone is used as a reaction medium with dehydration agents
Storage & Handling
Temperature: 2–8°C (pharmaceutical grades); room temperature (industrial grades)
Packaging: Polyethylene-lined paper bags (25 kg) or drums
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