METHYL CELLULOSE
Prepared at the 28th JECFA (1984), published in FNP 31/2 (1984) 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 Cellulose methyl ether; INS No. 461
DEFINITION The methyl ether of cellulose, prepared from wood pulp or cotton by treatment with alkali and methylation of the alkali cellulose with methyl chloride. The article of commerce can be specified further by viscosity. Chemical names Methyl ether of cellulose; Cellulose methyl ether
C.A.S. number 9004-67-5
Formula weight Unsubstituted structural unit: 162.14
Structural unit with total degree of substitution of 1.45 : 182
Structural unit with total degree of substitution of 2.00 : 190
Macromolecules: from about 20 000 (n about 100) up to about 380 000 (n about 2,000)
Assay Not less than 25% and not more than 33% of methoxyl groups (Some products of commerce designated "methyl cellulose" also contain
components substituted with small amounts (max. 5%) of hydroxyethyl and/or hydroxypropyl groups. Development of separate specifications for
these products should be considered).
DESCRIPTION Hygroscopic white or off-white, odourless fine granules, filaments or powder
FUNCTIONAL USESThickening agent, emulsifier, stabilizer
