METHYL ETHYL CELLULOSE
Prepared at the 17th JECFA (1973), published in FNP 4 (1978) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 57th JECFA (2001). A group ADI 'not specified' for modified celluloses was established at the 35th JECFA (1989)
SYNONYMS MEC; INS No. 465
DEFINITION A mixed ether of cellulose, prepared from cellulose by treatment with alkali, dimethyl sulfate and ethyl chloride; both the methyl and ethyl groups are attached to the anhydroglucose units by ether linkages. The article of commerce can be specified further by viscosity. Chemical names Ethyl methyl ether of cellulose
C.A.S. number 9004-69-7
Formula weight Unsubstituted structural unit: 162.14
Structural unit with a total degree of substitution of 0.77: 181
Structural unit with a total degree of substitution of 1.2: 190
Macromolecules: 30 000 - 40 000 (n about 200)
Assay Methyl Ethyl Cellulose contains, on the dried basis, not less than 3.5% and not more than 6.5% of methoxyl groups (-OCH3), not less than 14.5% and not more than 19.0% of ethoxyl groups (-OCH2CH3), and not less than 13.2% and not more than 19.6% of total alkoxyl groups, calculated as methoxyl (on the dry basis).
DESCRIPTION Hygroscopic and slightly yellowish odourless fibre or powder
FUNCTIONAL USESEmulsifier, stabilizer, thickening agent, foaming agent
