Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC), identified by CAS No. 9004-34-6, is a vital material in numerous industries, particularly pharmaceuticals and food manufacturing. Understanding its technical specifications is paramount for formulators and manufacturers to ensure optimal performance and product quality. These specifications detail the physical and chemical properties that define MCC's suitability for various applications.

The appearance of MCC is typically described as a white or off-white powder. This visual characteristic is a primary indicator of purity, with deviations potentially suggesting contamination or incomplete processing. Crucially, MCC is known for its high purity, frequently exceeding 99%. This level of purity is essential for its use as a pharmaceutical excipient, where stringent quality controls are in place.

The pH of MCC solutions is generally in the neutral range, typically between 5.0 and 7.0. This near-neutral pH is advantageous as it minimizes potential interactions with sensitive APIs or food ingredients. Moisture content, often measured as 'Loss on Drying', is another critical parameter, usually kept below 6.0%. Low moisture content prevents degradation and ensures the stability of the powder during storage and processing.

Further technical details include its ether-soluble and water-soluble matter, which should be minimal (≤0.05% and ≤0.25%, respectively), indicating the absence of significant impurities. The residue on ignition, a measure of inorganic impurities, is also kept very low (≤0.1%). Bulk density, typically ranging from 0.28-0.38 g/ml, is important for determining powder flow and compressibility in tablet manufacturing.

Heavy metal content, such as lead (Pb), is strictly controlled, usually to less than 10 PPM, adhering to safety regulations for pharmaceutical and food-grade products. The 'Specification' often refers to grades like 101 and 102, which denote differences in particle size and related properties, influencing flowability and compressibility. High production capacity, such as 8000 tons per year, ensures a stable supply for industrial needs.

By meticulously controlling these technical specifications, manufacturers provide a reliable and high-performing ingredient that meets the demanding requirements of the pharmaceutical and food industries, enabling the consistent production of safe and effective end products.