High Hydration Retardation HEC Grade Comparison (Natrosol 250™ HHR)

Based on the specifications provided for Natrosol 250™ HHR, we have a comparable grade in our portfolio that matches both the high-viscosity requirements and the delayed-hydration (retardation) functionality.

Recommended Match: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (4500mPa.s)

The closest match to the Natrosol 250 HHR (Very High Viscosity, Retarded Hydration) is our Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (4500mPa.s).

Specification Comparison

Technical Analysis of Hydration Retardation

The "R" designation in Natrosol grades refers to a surface treatment that delays hydration. This allows the powder to be dispersed in water without immediately thickening or forming "fish-eyes" (lumps).

Our Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (4500mPa.s) provides a similar functional benefit through its dissolution requirements:

• Dispersion: It can be dispersed in cold or room-temperature water without immediate swelling.
• Triggered Hydration: Viscosity build is triggered by either heating the solution to approximately 70°C or by adjusting the pH to be alkaline (pH > 7) using a base like Triethanolamine. Once dissolved, the pH can be adjusted back down to your target range.

Key Benefits & Applications

As a non-ionic cellulose ether, this grade is highly versatile for various formulations:

• Electrolyte Tolerance: Unlike carbomers, HEC maintains its viscosity in the presence of salts and electrolytes, making it ideal for shampoos, liquid soaps, and formulas with high active concentrations.
• Shear-Thinning Flow: It exhibits pseudoplastic behavior, providing high stability at rest (to suspend particles) while spreading easily during application.
• Film Formation: It creates a smooth, flexible film on the skin or hair, improving residence time and sensory feel.

Usage Guidance

1. Cold Dispersion: Add the HEC powder to water at room temperature while stirring. It will disperse but not thicken immediately.
2. Activation:
   • Option A (Heat): Heat the mixture to 70°C while stirring until the gel forms.
   • Option B (pH): Add an alkaline agent to raise the pH above 7.0. The gel will form quickly. You may then use an acid (like Citric Acid) to lower the pH to your desired final level (e.g., pH 5.5).
3. Concentration: Typically used at 0.5% – 3.0% depending on the desired thickness.

For other viscosity requirements, we also offer Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (2800mPa.s) and Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (2000mPa.s) (Super Clear Gel).