How to Prepare Methyl Cellulose Solutions

Methyl cellulose is used as a thickening agent, binding agent and emulsifier in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations. A characteristic property of methyl cellulose is that it dissolves in cold conditions, but is insoluble in hot conditions. However, adding methyl cellulose directly to cold water does not give a solution, but only lumps of powder dispersed in water. Therefore, the method generally used is to disperse the methyl cellulose powder thoroughly in hot water and then reduce the temperature of the solution to the range at which it goes into solution.

Instructions

    • 1

      Calculate the quantity of methyl cellulose you have to weigh depending upon the concentration of the solution you require. For example, to prepare a 10 percent solution, you need to weigh 10 gm of methyl cellulose and dissolve it in 100 ml of water.

    • 2

      Take one-third of the quantity of water you require and heat it to about 80 degrees Celsisus.

    • 3

      Add the weighed quantity of methyl cellulose into the hot water. Stir it briskly until all particles of the powder are completely wet and dispersed in the water.

    • 4

      Cool the remaining two-thirds quantity of water and add into the dispersion. Continue agitating the dispersion until all the dispersed particles get hydrated and the methyl cellulose gets completely dissolved. This is indicated by an increase in the viscosity of the solution.

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