CMC Sodium Salt, Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Textile uses

CMC is used in textiles as a thickening agent in textile printing, constituting about 2-3% of printing pastes. It is also used in fabric finishing to affect the fabric's texture. Additionally, CMC serves as a binding agent in non-woven fabrics, contributing to the strength and stability of the material. In sizing applications, about 1-3% of CMC is used to protect yarns during weaving to reduce breakages.

CMC aids in thickening printing pastes, which makes the prints themselves more precise. It is also used to thicken dyes. Additionally, it is an alternative to synthetic thickeners .

Cosmetics uses

CMC is an ingredient used in over 50% of cosmetic products. As a thickening agent, it is used in formulations where viscosity needs to be precisely controlled. In hair care, about 25% of shampoos and conditioners utilize CMC for its conditioning and detangling effects. It is also used in the makeup and toothpaste industries to control the products' texture. Due to its ability to retain moisture, it is also used in skincare products. CMC serves as a film-forming agent in approximately 10% of sunscreens.

CMC aids in pigment suspension and dispersion, binding other ingredients for even distribution. CMC, when combined with Fatty Acid Ethanolamine or 2,2'-Iminodiethanol in a hair product, can form a thin film around the hair .

Oil Drilling

As a thickening agent, CMC can increase the viscosity of drilling fluids and form a network structure in the mud, thereby enhancing their suspension capacity. CMC can effectively protect the wellbore and manage the penetration and loss of moisture in the drilling fluid. Ultra-high viscosity Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose can be used in fracturing fluids, primarily to carry fillers into oil wells .

Medical applications

CMC is also used in numerous medical applications

Some examples include:

Device for epistaxis (nose bleeding). A poly-vinyl chloride (PVC) balloon is covered by CMC knitted fabric reinforced by nylon. The device is soaked in water to form a gel, which is inserted into the nose of the patient and inflated. The combination of the inflated balloon and the therapeutic effect of the CMC stops the bleeding.

Hydrofiber fabric used as a medical dressing following ear, nose, and throat surgical procedures.

Water is added to form a gel, and this gel is inserted into the sinus cavity following surgery.

In ophthalmology, CMC is used as a lubricating agent in artificial tears solutions for the treatment of dry eyes.

In veterinary medicine, CMC is used in abdominal surgeries in large animals, particularly horses, to prevent the formation of bowel adhesions .