Ethylcellulose

Name:
Ethylcellulose
Detailed information:
An ethyl ether of cellulose.

Properties:

White, granular thermoplastic solid, lowest density of the commercial cellulose plastics; properties vary with extent to which hydroxyl radicals of cellulose have been replaced by ethoxy groups. Standard commercial product has 47–48% ethoxy content, d 1.07–1.18, refr index 1.47, high dielectric strength, softening point 100–130C. Soluble in most organic liquids; compatible with resins, waxes, oils, and plasticizers; inert to alkalies and dilute acids; insoluble in water and glycerol. Combustible.

Derivation:

From alkali cellulose and ethyl chloride or sulfate; from cellulose and ethanol in the presence of dehydrating agents.

Grade:

Technical, NF, FCC.

Use:

Hot-melt adhesives and coatings for cables, paper, textiles, etc.; extrusion-wire insulation; protective coatings; pigment-grinding bases; toughening agent for plastics; printing inks; molding powders; proximity fuses; vitamin preparations; casing for rocket propellants; food and feed additive.