Heat Stability and Preparation Method for HPMC 50cP

Yes, you can immerse Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC, 50cP, 55C Gel) in a water bath at 80°C for 5 minutes.

In fact, heating HPMC to 80–90°C is a standard part of the "Hot Water Diffusion Method" used to prepare it. At this temperature, HPMC does not dissolve but instead disperses evenly throughout the water without clumping.

Key points for preparation:

1. Dispersion (Hot Phase): When you add HPMC to 80°C water, it will form a turbid (cloudy) liquid. This is normal. The high temperature prevents the particles from hydrating too quickly and sticking together.
2. Dissolution (Cold Phase): To actually form a clear gel, you must cool the mixture down. Once the HPMC is well-dispersed in the hot water, add it to cold water (or cool the mixture down, ideally below 20°C) while stirring continuously. The gel will become clear and reach its full viscosity as it cools.
3. Stability: HPMC is thermally stable at 80°C for short periods like 5 minutes, so this process will not damage the polymer.

Recommended Products:

• Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC, 50cP, 55C Gel): Suitable for cosmetic formulations like shampoos or liquid soaps to create texture and stabilize bubbles.
• Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC, 50cP, 55C Gel, Food): Food-grade version used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, or thickener in various food applications.