Detergent Grade CMC
Product Name: Carboxymethyl Cellulose Sodium (CMC)
Alias: CMC, Cellulose Gum, Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose
CAS No.：9004-32-4
Chemical Structure: Derived from cellulose via carboxymethylation, featuring hydrophilic carboxymethyl groups (-COO⁻Na⁺) on the glucose unit. Anionic linear polymer with high water solubility.
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| CMC For Detergent Powder | Liquid Detergent Thickener | Thickener For Liquid Detergent |
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| Thickener For Liquid Detergent | Thickener For Liquid Detergents |
I. Product Characteristics
Item | Index | Description |
Appearance | White to off-white powder | Free of visible impurities, fine texture |
Solubility | Instant soluble in cold water, forming clear viscous solution | Insoluble in organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, oil) |
pH Value | 6.5~8.5 (1% solution) | Neutral to slightly alkaline, stable in wide pH range |
Substitution Degree (DS) | 0.9~1.2 (customizable) | Higher DS = stronger water solubility and anionic charge |
Viscosity | 50~5000 mPa·s (1% aqueous solution, 25℃) | Graded by viscosity (low/medium/high) for different detergent formulations |
Ash Content | ≤5.0% | Inorganic residue after thermal decomposition |
II. Core Functions in Detergent Industry
1. Anti-Redeposition Agent
• Mechanism:
• In-vitro studies in detergent industry have shown that CMC constitutes an (H) bond with cotton fibers in cotton weaving. The dirt trap occurs between negatively (-) charged powder particles and the negatively charged carboxymethyl groups. In this way, CMC traps the dirt in powder detergents and allows anti-redeposition with rinse water. Hence it is called an anti-redeposition agent. Furthermore, it improves the detergency and performance, resulting in economical benefits.
• Effects:
• Significantly reduces graying of white fabrics and color transfer in colored garments.
• Enhances cleaning efficiency, especially in low-phosphate or phosphate-free detergents.
2. Thickening and Stabilizing Agent
• Mechanism:
• Forms a network structure in aqueous solutions, increasing viscosity and improving product consistency (e.g., in liquid detergents).
• Stabilizes surfactant systems, preventing phase separation and improving pumpability.
• Sentai high viscosity CMC is used in liquid detergents because higher water retention is required. High-viscosity instant CMC is used to make detergents and hand sanitizers. It is an ideal substitute for Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) and Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC).
• Effects:
• Adjusts product texture (e.g., from low-viscosity liquids to gel-like pastes).
• Ensures uniform distribution of active ingredients during application.
3. Soil Dispersant
• Mechanism:
• Disperses oily and particulate soils (e.g., grease, clay) by adsorbing onto their surfaces and preventing agglomeration.
• Effects:
• Improves suspension of dirt in wash water, facilitating removal by surfactants.
• Prevents redeposition during rinsing, especially in hard water conditions.
4. Foam Regulator
• Mechanism:
• Stabilizes foam structure in low-foam or high-foam detergent formulations, depending on viscosity grade.
• Effects:
• Low-viscosity CMC: Reduces excessive foam in machine washing (compatible with HE (high-efficiency) detergents).
• High-viscosity CMC: Enhances foam stability in hand-washing detergents (e.g., dish soap).
5. Fabric Protection Agent
• Mechanism:
• Forms a thin protective film on fabric surfaces, reducing friction during washing.
• Effects:
• Minimizes fabric abrasion and pilling, extending garment lifespan.
• Improves softness and smoothness of washed textiles.
III. Application Scenarios
Detergent Type | Typical Dosage | Key Function |
Powder Detergents | 1.0~3.0 wt.% | Anti-redeposition, soil dispersion |
Liquid Detergents | 0.5~2.0 wt.% | Thickening, stability, anti-redeposition |
Dishwashing Liquids | 0.3~1.5 wt.% | Foam stabilization, grease dispersion |
Laundry Gels | 1.5~4.0 wt.% | Viscosity control, soil suspension |
Industrial Cleaners | 0.5~2.5 wt.% | Heavy-duty soil dispersion, anti-corrosion |
IV. Technical Advantages
1. Multi-functional Performance: Combines anti-redeposition, thickening, and soil-dispersing properties in one additive.
2. Hard Water Compatibility: Maintains efficacy in water with high calcium/magnesium ion content (≤300 ppm).
3. Environmental Friendliness: Biodegradable, non-toxic, and compliant with EU Ecolabel and U.S. EPA Safer Choice standards.
4. Cost Efficiency: Reduces reliance on synthetic polymers (e.g., PVP) while improving detergent performance.
5. Formulation Flexibility: Available in low, medium, and high viscosity grades for tailored applications.
V. Usage Notes
1. Dissolution Guidelines
• Method: Gradually sprinkle CMC into agitated warm water (40~60℃) to avoid clumping. Stir for 30~60 minutes until fully hydrated.
• Tips: Pre-dissolve in a separate tank before blending with surfactants and other additives.
2. Compatibility
• Avoid direct mixing with strong cationic compounds (e.g., quaternary ammonium salts), as they may cause precipitation.
• Adjust pH of the detergent formulation to 6.5~8.5 for optimal stability.
3. Storage
• Store in sealed bags or containers in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Shelf life: 24 months under recommended storage conditions.
*For customized CMC or technical support, please contact us freely.
