Why MHEC is being preferred over HPMC in the Indian market for wall putty application？

Wall putty is an essential building material used in construction industry in India market for providing a smooth, leveled surface for painting or finishing. Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC) and Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) are two commonly used cellulose ethers in wall putty formulations. In the Indian market, MHEC is often preferred over HPMC, but what are the reasons behind this choice? In this article, we will provide a comparative analysis of MHEC and HPMC in the Indian wall putty application.

What is MHEC？

Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC) is a cellulose ether-based polymer commonly used in the construction industry. It is derived from natural cellulose and is produced through a chemical modification process. This non-ionic, water-soluble polymer and is widely used as a binder and thickener in a variety of applications, including wall putty, tile adhesives, and plasters. MHEC offers several advantages such as improved workability, water retention, and adhesion, and is particularly effective in hot and dry conditions. Its compatibility with a wide range of materials, including cement and lime, makes it a popular choice in the Indian specialty chemical market.

MHEC vs HPMC

Methyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (MHEC) and Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) are both commonly used in wall putty formulations as thickeners and water retention agents. However, MHEC is used more frequently than HPMC in the Indian market for several reasons:

1. Superior Water Retention: MHEC has better water retention properties compared to HPMC, This means that it can hold onto water for longer periods of time, which can lead to better workability and a smoother finish for wall putty.

2.Higher Sag Resistance: MHEC provides higher sag resistance compared to HPMC, which is especially important for vertical applications such as walls and helps to ensure a more consistent finish.

3.Better Compatibility: MHEC is more compatible with a wider range of materials, including cement and lime, which are commonly used in Indian construction. HPMC may have limited compatibility with certain materials and may require additional additives to improve its performance.

 4.Ease of Application: MHEC is easier to mix and apply compared to HPMC. It can be dispersed more easily in water and has a longer working time, which can improve the ease and efficiency of application.This can be especially important in larger scale projects, where time and labor costs are significant factors.

5.Climatic Reasons: The performance of cellulose ethers, such as MHEC and HPMC, can be affected by temperature and humidity. In hot and dry conditions, MHEC may provide better water retention and workability compared to HPMC, which can dry out and become less effective. In cooler and more humid conditions, HPMC may provide better water retention and workability compared to MHEC.