How to Properly Mix Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) Gel

Creating a clear gel with Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) requires specific conditions, particularly regarding temperature and mixing. Based on the product information and common practices, here is the recommended method:

1. Heat the Water: The product descriptions indicate that HEC dissolves and forms a gel at approximately 70°C. This means you need to heat the water (or the water phase of your formulation) to around this temperature.

2. Add HEC while Stirring: While the water is hot (around 70°C) and being stirred continuously, slowly sprinkle the HEC powder into the water. It's crucial to stir vigorously during this step to prevent the powder from clumping together.

3. Continue Stirring During Cooling: After adding the HEC and ensuring it is dispersed, turn off the heat. Continue stirring the mixture continuously as it cools down. HEC hydrates and forms the gel structure as the solution cools. Insufficient or intermittent stirring during this cooling phase is a common reason for uneven gel formation or clumping at the bottom.

4. Add Other Ingredients: Once the gel has fully formed and cooled down, you can add other ingredients to your formulation.

Your previous attempt likely resulted in gel forming only at the bottom because the stirring was not continuous or vigorous enough, especially as the mixture cooled, preventing the HEC from hydrating uniformly throughout the liquid.

Different types of HEC, such as Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (4500mPa.s), Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (2800mPa.s), and Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (2000mPa.s) (Super Clear Gel), may offer different viscosities, but the general mixing principle involving heat and continuous stirring remains the same.

Continuous and sufficient stirring throughout the heating and cooling process is key to achieving a smooth, uniform gel texture with HEC.