Hydroxyethyl cellulose

Hydroxyethyl cellulose

Names
Other names Cellulose, hydroxyethyl ether; hydroxyethylcellulose; 2-hydroxyethyl cellulose; hyetellose
Identifiers
CAS Number	9004-62-0 Y
ChEBI	CHEBI:85249 N
ChemSpider	none
ECHA InfoCard	100.116.562
E number	E1525 (additional chemicals)
Properties
Chemical formula	variable
Molar mass	variable
Melting point	140 °C (284 °F; 413 K)
Hazards
Safety data sheet	MSDS
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
N verify (what is YN ?)
Infobox references

Hydroxyethyl cellulose, also known by the trade name Natrosol, is a gelling and thickening agent derived from cellulose. It is widely used in cosmetics, cleaning solutions, and other household products.^[1] Hydroxyethyl cellulose and methyl cellulose are frequently used with hydrophobic drugs in capsule formulations, to improve the drugs' dissolution in the gastrointestinal fluids. This process is known as hydrophilization.^[2]

Hydroxyethyl cellulose is one of the main ingredients in the personal lubricant KY Jelly. It is also a key ingredient in the formation of big bubbles as it possesses the ability to dissolve in water but also provide structural strength to the soap bubble. Amongst other similar chemicals, it is often used as slime (and gunge, in the UK), a gooey substance often used on television and in fundraising events which is poured over individuals with the aim of causing embarrassment.

References