Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC-Na), identified by CAS number 9004-32-4, stands as a cornerstone ingredient across numerous industrial and consumer applications. This anionic polymer, derived from natural cellulose, is renowned for its exceptional functional properties, primarily serving as a highly effective thickener, stabilizer, and rheology modifier.

CMC-Na is typically presented as a white, fibrous or granular powder. It is odorless and exhibits hygroscopic properties, readily absorbing moisture from the atmosphere. When dispersed in water, it hydrates quickly to form a transparent, colloidal solution with varying levels of viscosity, depending on the grade and concentration. This solubility and thickening capability in aqueous systems are central to its widespread use.

The chemical structure of CMC-Na involves carboxymethyl groups (-CH2-COOH) attached to some of the hydroxyl groups of the cellulose backbone. These carboxyl groups are in their sodium salt form (-CH2-COONa), which imparts the anionic charge and water solubility. The degree of substitution (DS), which indicates the average number of carboxymethyl groups per anhydroglucose unit in the cellulose chain, is a critical parameter influencing CMC-Na's solubility, viscosity, and functional performance in different applications. High-quality CMC-Na is characterized by a uniform degree of substitution and controlled molecular weight distribution, ensuring consistent performance.

One of the most significant application areas for CMC-Na is the food industry. Here, it is widely used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer. In products like ice cream, CMC-Na helps to prevent the formation of large ice crystals, resulting in a smoother texture and improved resistance to melting. In yogurts, sauces, and salad dressings, it provides desired viscosity and prevents separation of ingredients. It also finds use in baked goods to improve dough rheology and extend shelf life. The food-grade quality of CMC-Na must meet stringent purity standards, including low levels of sodium chloride, sodium glycolate, and heavy metals, adhering to regulations such as GB 1886.232-2016.

Beyond food, CMC-Na is invaluable in industrial sectors. In coatings and paints, it functions as a thickener and rheology modifier, improving viscosity control, preventing pigment settling during storage, and ensuring smooth application with enhanced brushability and leveling. Its pseudoplastic behavior means viscosity decreases under shear (like brushing or spraying) and recovers when shear is removed, which is ideal for many application processes. In the paper and pulp industry, CMC-Na is utilized to enhance paper strength, improve surface properties for printing and writing, act as a retention aid for fine fibers and fillers, and control water penetration.

The petroleum industry, particularly oil drilling, relies heavily on CMC-Na. It is a vital component of drilling fluids, serving as a fluid loss control agent and viscosity modifier. By increasing the viscosity of the drilling mud, it helps to suspend drill cuttings and transport them to the surface. Simultaneously, it forms a thin, impermeable filter cake on the borehole wall, minimizing the loss of drilling fluid into the formation. This contributes significantly to drilling efficiency and borehole stability, especially in challenging geological conditions. The stability of CMC-Na solutions across varying temperatures and electrolyte concentrations makes it particularly suitable for this demanding application.

Controlling parameters like purity, viscosity, and degree of substitution is essential for tailoring CMC-Na for specific uses. Viscosity, often measured in solutions of specific concentration, can range from low to high, offering versatility. High-quality CMC-Na guarantees minimal levels of impurities, ensuring safety and optimal performance in sensitive applications like food and pharmaceuticals (though the material focuses on powder form for food/industrial). The manufacturing process is carefully controlled to achieve the desired molecular characteristics and maintain lot-to-lot consistency.

The material is typically supplied in durable 25kg bags, designed for ease of handling and storage, protecting the hygroscopic powder from moisture. Proper storage in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances is crucial to maintain its quality and shelf life.

In summary, Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC-Na), CAS 9004-32-4, is a high-performance, multi-functional additive critical to a wide array of products and processes. Its ability to thicken, stabilize, suspend, and control fluid rheology makes it indispensable in applications ranging from daily consumables to heavy industrial operations. Its versatility and reliability underscore its importance in modern manufacturing.

For businesses sourcing this essential ingredient, locating a reputable CMC manufacturer and supplier is paramount to ensuring quality and consistency. Factors such as production capacity, quality control processes, and supply chain reliability are key considerations. Information regarding CMC price can vary based on grade, purity, viscosity, and order volume. Prospective customers looking to buy CMC-Na or purchase Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose should engage with suppliers to discuss specific requirements and obtain detailed product specifications and competitive quotations.