Carboxymethylcellulose is a cellulose derivative that consists of the cellulose backbone made up of glucopyranose monomers. Commonly added in food products, it acts as a viscosity modifier or thickener and emulsifier. It is found in eye drops as a lubricant.
CAS: 9000-11-7
Properties:
Appearance: white or milk white fibrous powder or particles
Odor: odorless and tasteless
Solubility: Insoluble in organic solvents such as methanol, alcohol, diethyl ether, acetone, chloroform and benzene but soluble in water.
Compatibility: good compatibility with water-soluble glues, softeners and resin
Uses:
In the development of biostructures such as biofilms, emulsions and nanoparticles for drug delivery.
Used as a viscosity modifier or thickener, and to stabilize emulsions in various products including ice cream.
It is also a constituent of many non-food products, such as toothpaste, laxatives, diet pills, water-based paints, detergents, textile sizing, and various paper products.
Used as a lubricant in artificial tears.
