FAQs on Sodium CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose)
1. What is Sodium CMC?
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) is a water-soluble cellulose derivative used as a thickener, stabiliser, film former, suspending agent, and controlled-release polymer. It is derived from natural cellulose, making it non-toxic, biocompatible, and environmentally friendly.
2. What are the key applications of Sodium CMC?
Sodium CMC is highly versatile and is used in:
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Pharmaceuticals: controlled-release tablets, liquid orals, ophthalmic solutions
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Oral Care: toothpaste and dental gels as a thickener and stabiliser
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Topicals: creams, ointments, and gels for consistency and spreadability
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Food & Industrial uses: as a stabiliser and viscosity modifier
3. How does Sodium CMC work in pharmaceutical formulations?
In drug formulations, Sodium CMC acts as a:
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Controlled-release polymer in oral tablets
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Viscosity builder in suspensions and syrups
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Film former for coatings
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Lubricant and stabiliser in topical and ophthalmic preparations
4. Is Sodium CMC safe for pharmaceutical use?
Yes. Sodium CMC is non-toxic, inert, and pharmacopeia-compliant (USP/Ph. Eur). Its natural origin and safety profile make it suitable for oral, topical, and ophthalmic applications.
5. What dosage forms can Sodium CMC be used in?
Sodium CMC is used in:
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Solid orals (tablets, controlled-release systems)
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Liquid orals (syrups, suspensions)
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Ophthalmic formulations (eye drops, gels)
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Oral care products (toothpaste, mouthwash)
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Topicals (creams, lotions, gels)
6. What grades of Sodium CMC are available?
We supply a wide range of viscosity grades tailored to different applications, including:
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Low viscosity grades (25–150 cps): for coatings, oral solutions
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Medium viscosity grades (200–1200 cps): for suspensions, toothpaste, and eye drops
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High viscosity grades (1500–8000 cps): for controlled-release tablets, thick creams, gels
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Super Quick Dispersing Grade (Swift 8Q70): fast-hydrating CMC for rapid processing
7. How does viscosity affect the performance of Sodium CMC?
Viscosity determines how Sodium CMC functions in a formulation:
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Low viscosity: easy flow, good solubility, suitable for liquids
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High viscosity: strong thickening, gel formation, controlled release in tablets
Choosing the right grade is crucial for formulation stability and performance.
8. What are the advantages of Hydrocel® Sodium CMC?
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Wide range of viscosity grades for flexibility
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Super quick dispersing options for efficient processing
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Consistent batch-to-batch quality
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Non-toxic and biocompatible
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Long shelf life with excellent stability
9. What certifications does Hydrocel® Sodium CMC comply with?
Hydrocel® Sodium CMC meets USP and Ph. Eur standards, ensuring quality, safety, and regulatory compliance for pharmaceutical and personal care applications.
10. How can I select the right Sodium CMC grade for my application?
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Oral care & ophthalmic: medium viscosity grades (200–1200 cps)
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Controlled release tablets: high viscosity grades (1500–8000 cps)
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Topicals & gels: medium to high viscosity grades
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Liquid orals: low viscosity grades (25–150 cps)
Our technical team can recommend the most suitable grade based on your specific product needs.