How to check the HPMC viscosity

Different application requirements form various types of HPMC in viscosity, for example, HPMC suitable for tile adhesive needs more adhesion ability, and the highly viscous fits it. however, as to the leveling mortars, water retention ability is enough, so it need low viscosity.

Hence, it is crucial to check the HPMC viscosity before determining how it is put into use.

Measuring the viscosity of a Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) solution involves determining its resistance to flow. Here's a general guide:

1. Equipment and Materials:

• HPMC sample
• Rotational viscometer (NDJ-1 or Brookfield)
• Thermometer
• Glass rod
• Beaker
• Analytical Balances
• Water bath pot

2. Preparation of HPMC Solution:

Weigh 2.0000 grams HPMC sample with analytical balances, the number accurate to the fourth digital after the dot.

Weigh around 80 grams of boiled water in a beaker, put the weighed HPMC powder into the beaker, and stir it uniformly.

Weigh the left water (cold) make it up to 198 grams in total, and make it into 1% solution.

Stir it uniformly until the solution is transparent, and then put the beaker into a Water bath pot with 20℃， and cool it down for about 1 hour.

3. Viscosity Measurement:

Level the rotational viscometer, select the appropriate rotor, adjust the speed to the appropriate gear, and run the rotational viscometer, when the record is stable, read and record it.

Calculate the viscosity according to the instructions of the specific viscometer.

4. Temperature Control:

Checking the viscosity is under the condition of 20℃， so ensure the solution temperature during the testing process.

5. Interpretation:

The viscosity of the HPMC solution is usually reported in centipoise (cP) or millipascal seconds (mPa·s) and can vary based on concentration, molecular weight, and other factors.

Ensure that you follow the specific method recommended by the HPMC manufacturer or the standards applicable to your industry. Additionally, consider the viscosity measurement conditions, such as shear rate and temperature, to accurately represent the behavior of the solution in your application.