NaCMC
NaCMC, or sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, is the sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose, a water-soluble derivative of cellulose. The polymer consists of cellulose chains in which some hydroxyl groups are replaced by carboxymethyl groups, giving an anionic, high-molecular-weight polyelectrolyte. The degree of substitution (DS)—the average number of carboxymethyl groups per glucose unit—along with molecular weight, largely determines viscosity and gel-forming behavior.
Production and forms: NaCMC is produced by etherification of cellulose with monochloroacetic acid in an alkaline
Properties: NaCMC is a hydrophilic, anionic polymer capable of thickening and stabilizing diverse formulations. It exhibits
Applications: In the food industry, NaCMC is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and binder in dairy, sauces,
Regulatory status: NaCMC is widely regulated as a food additive (often referenced as carboxymethyl cellulose, E466)