Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose(SCMC) is a type of cellulose ether widely used in various industries, like food, pharmaceuticals, paper making, ceramics, detergents, textiles and cosmetic industries etc. Three key parameters are essential to Sodium CMC: viscosity, purity and Degree of Substitution(D.S.). However, another critical factor that many R&D professionals focus on is the Molecular Weight(MW). Understanding the approximate molecular weight helps in calculating the total molecular weight helps in calculating the total molecular weight of a new formulation.
This article explains how to estimate the molecular weight of Sodium CMC and suggests suitable types of CMC based on different molecular weight requirements.
Q: How could I calculate the Molecular Weight(MW) of Sodium CMC ?
A: Firstly, we need to know what influences the molecular weight of Sodium CMC ? It’s mainly depends on the DP(Degree of Polymerization)of the raw material(either refine cotton or wooden fiber). Low viscosity CMC typically uses wooden fiber as the raw material, with a DP of about 700-1100. High viscosity CMC uses refine cotton with a DP of above 1500.
Then, we can use the following formula to calculate molecular weight:
MW=DP *(162+80*D.S.)
For example, to calculate the molecular weight of FH2000 (SINOCMC brand FINSIN-5, 1%soln.2560cps, D.S:0.83).
MW=1800*(162+80*0.83)=411,120
From the above formula, we can see that, a higher D.S. leads to higher viscosity and a greater molecular weight. Therefore, if you need a specific molecular weight for your formulation, we can recommand the most suitable type of CMC based on your target molecular weight. If you are not sure which type of CMC you need, please contact the SINOCMC team with your detailed requirements, we will be happy to assist you selecting the most suitable CMC for your formulation.
SINOCMC is a professional supplier of Sodium CMC in China. Various types of Sodium CMC(granular Sodium CMC), coarse Sodium CMC, powder Sodium CMC, ultra lower viscosity CMC and ultra high viscosity CMC12000) can be provided by us.
If you have any question about Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose(SCMC), please contact SINOCMC freely.
SINOCMC Team