CMCd

CMCd, also known as Carboxymethyl Cellulose, is a chemically modified derivative of cellulose. It is produced by treating cellulose with alkali and then reacting it with a carboxymethylating agent, typically sodium monochloroacetate. This process introduces carboxymethyl groups onto the cellulose backbone, rendering it soluble in water and imparting a range of useful properties.

CMCd is a versatile anionic polymer that functions primarily as a thickening agent, binder, stabilizer, and film-former. Its viscosity in aqueous solutions can be controlled by varying the degree of substitution and molecular weight. This makes it suitable for a wide array of applications across various industries.

In the food industry, CMCd is commonly used as a food additive (E466) to improve texture, prevent syneresis, and enhance mouthfeel in products like ice cream, baked goods, and sauces. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a binder in tablets, a suspending agent in liquid formulations, and a component of artificial tears. The textile industry utilizes CMCd as a sizing agent to strengthen warp yarns and as a thickener for printing pastes. It also finds application in detergents as an anti-redeposition agent, preventing dirt from settling back onto fabrics during washing. Other uses include paper manufacturing, mining, and cosmetics. CMCd is generally recognized as safe for consumption and use, though specific regulations may apply depending on the region and application.