Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium (CMC): Thickener and Stabilizer
Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC, croscarmellose sodium’s linear parent polymer) is an anionic water-soluble cellulose derivative widely used as a thickener, suspending agent, and stabilizer in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic formulations. Its viscosity-building properties and excellent biocompatibility make it a versatile excipient across multiple dosage forms.
Product Profile
| CAS Number | 9004-32-4 |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white fibrous or granular powder |
| Function | Thickener / suspending agent / stabilizer / binder |
| Typical Use Level | 0.1–2.0% as thickener in liquids; 1–6% as binder in tablets |
| Compendial Grade | EP / USP-NF |
Formulation Applications
In oral suspensions, CMC provides structured viscosity that retards sedimentation of insoluble particles while allowing easy redispersion. It is also used as a binder in wet granulation for tablet manufacturing. In ophthalmic preparations, low-viscosity grades (0.5–1.0%) serve as lubricating agents in artificial tear formulations. CMC is available in multiple viscosity grades (low, medium, high) defined by their degree of substitution (DS, typically 0.7–1.2) and molecular weight. Formulators should be aware that CMC solutions are pseudoplastic (shear-thinning) and may interact with multivalent cations, leading to gel formation or precipitation.
Why Source from TCS
TCS supplies carboxymethylcellulose sodium in pharmaceutical and food grades to formulators across Europe. Multiple viscosity grades available with flexible quantities for R&D through production scale. Contact us with your application and volume requirements.
FAQ
What information should be included in an inquiry for Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium –9004-32-4?
A useful inquiry normally includes the product name, target application, estimated quantity, destination market, and any specific documentation or packaging requests.
How is Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium –9004-32-4 usually evaluated for sourcing?
This product is positioned for excipient sourcing where formulation fit, dosage form, handling, and repeat purchasing requirements need to be reviewed together with commercial supply conditions.
What documentation and commercial points are commonly reviewed before buying Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium –9004-32-4?
For excipient sourcing, teams usually discuss the intended dosage form, formulation role, packaging format, order volume, and the routine documentation needed for qualification and purchasing.
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