Karboksimetüültselluloosa

Karboksimetüültselluloos, often abbreviated as CMC, is a cellulose derivative. It is a water-soluble anionic polymer. It is synthesized by reacting cellulose with sodium chloroacetate in the presence of an alkali. The carboxymethyl groups are attached to the glucose units of the cellulose backbone. The degree of substitution, which refers to the number of carboxymethyl groups per anhydroglucose unit, influences its properties.

CMC is widely used in various industries due to its versatile properties. It functions as a thickener, binder, stabilizer, and emulsifier. In the food industry, it is commonly used as a food additive (E number E466) to improve texture, prevent ingredient separation, and increase viscosity in products like ice cream, sauces, and baked goods. It is also found in toothpaste, pharmaceuticals as a binder and disintegrant in tablets, and in cosmetics as a thickener. In the paper industry, CMC is used as a surface sizing agent to improve printability and strength. It also plays a role in textile manufacturing for warp sizing and printing. Its biodegradability and low toxicity make it an environmentally friendly option in many applications.