Carboxy Methyl Cellulose CMC – 500 gram Packs

Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC), also known as cellulose gum, is a water-soluble cellulose derivative produced by introducing carboxymethyl groups into the cellulose structure. This modified polysaccharide is commonly supplied as a white to off-white powder and is valued for its ability to increase viscosity, support suspension, and modify the flow properties of aqueous solutions. Its performance depends on factors such as degree of substitution, molecular weight, and the grade supplied. In laboratory settings, Carboxymethyl Cellulose is used in polymer chemistry investigations, solution preparation, viscosity measurements, and selected research involving colloidal systems and material formulations. It is relevant to school and college chemistry practicals, university experiments, and research laboratories studying water-soluble polymers. For laboratory use, the appropriate grade and specifications should be selected according to the experimental method, since different CMC grades may exhibit different solubility and rheological characteristics.

Product Specifications

Specification	Details
Appearance	White to off-white powder
Assay	99%
Chemical Name	Carboxymethyl Cellulose
Alternate Names	Cellulose Gum, Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (if supplied as the sodium salt), CMC, Carboxymethylcellulose
Molecular Formula	Variable; depends on degree of substitution and chemical form
Empirical Formula	Not applicable as a single fixed formula; composition varies with substitution and chemical form
CAS Number	9000-11-7
Molecular Weight	Variable; depends on polymer chain length and degree of substitution
Grade	LR Laboratory Reagent

Key Features of Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

• Water-soluble polymer: CMC is a modified cellulose derivative that can dissolve or disperse in water, depending on its chemical form, grade, and preparation conditions.
• Viscosity modification: It can increase the viscosity of aqueous systems, making it useful for studying polymer solution behaviour and flow properties.
• Suspension stabilisation: Its polymeric structure can help maintain the distribution of suspended particles in suitable laboratory formulations.
• Variable polymer characteristics: Molecular weight and degree of substitution influence viscosity, solubility, and other functional properties.
• Research versatility: Its properties support selected investigations involving water-soluble polymers, colloidal systems, and material formulation.

Laboratory Applications of Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

• Polymer chemistry experiments: Used in educational investigations of modified cellulose, polymer behaviour, and the relationship between concentration and solution viscosity.
• Viscosity measurements: Supports comparative studies of aqueous polymer solutions using suitable viscometers and controlled experimental conditions.
• Colloid and suspension studies: Used to investigate how water-soluble polymers influence particle dispersion and suspension stability.
• Solution formulation research: Can be incorporated into laboratory formulations to study thickening, flow behaviour, and consistency under defined conditions.
• Materials science investigations: Used in selected research involving polymer films, hydrogels, and cellulose-based materials, depending on the grade and formulation requirements.

Why Choose Lab Wale to Buy Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

Lab Wale provides a convenient sourcing option for laboratory chemicals and scientific supplies used by schools, colleges, universities, research centres, and laboratory professionals. When purchasing Carboxymethyl Cellulose, review the chemical form, stated laboratory grade, available specifications, and relevant safety documentation to determine its suitability for the intended experiment. Molecular weight, degree of substitution, and viscosity characteristics can influence performance in polymer studies and solution preparation. Selecting the appropriate grade helps laboratories align their material requirements with their experimental methods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

What is Carboxymethyl Cellulose used for in laboratories?

Carboxymethyl Cellulose is used in polymer chemistry experiments, viscosity measurements, suspension studies, and research involving aqueous formulations and cellulose-based materials. Its suitability depends on the chemical form and polymer characteristics required by the experimental procedure.

What is the chemical formula of Carboxymethyl Cellulose?

Carboxymethyl Cellulose does not have one universal molecular formula because its composition varies with the degree of substitution and polymer chain length. The sodium salt, commonly called sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, has a different composition from the acid form. The exact chemical form should be confirmed for accurate identification.

What is the CAS number of Carboxymethyl Cellulose?

CAS number 9000-11-7 is associated with carboxymethyl cellulose, while sodium carboxymethyl cellulose is commonly identified by CAS number 9004-32-4. Because the names are sometimes used interchangeably in commercial descriptions, confirm the supplied form before using the CAS number for procurement or laboratory records.

How does Carboxymethyl Cellulose affect the viscosity of water?

CMC can increase the viscosity of aqueous solutions by introducing dissolved polymer chains that influence flow behaviour. The degree of thickening depends on concentration, molecular weight, degree of substitution, temperature, and solution conditions. Comparative measurements should use consistent preparation and measurement procedures.

How should Carboxymethyl Cellulose be stored and handled?

Store CMC in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry location, protected from moisture and contamination. Avoid creating or inhaling airborne powder during weighing and transfer. Wear appropriate laboratory protective equipment and follow the product-specific Safety Data Sheet for handling, spill management, and disposal requirements.

Storage Conditions for Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

Store Carboxymethyl Cellulose in a tightly closed, compatible container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Protect the powder from moisture, contamination, and excessive heat. Keep the container properly labelled and minimise exposure to humid air during use, as moisture uptake can affect handling and weighing. Follow the supplier’s storage recommendations and the applicable Safety Data Sheet.

Precautions for Handling Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

Review the current Safety Data Sheet before use. Wear suitable safety goggles, laboratory clothing, and gloves, and avoid inhaling airborne powder or allowing it to contact the eyes. Use appropriate ventilation when weighing or transferring large quantities and minimise dust generation. Clean spills using suitable procedures to prevent airborne particles and slippery surfaces, and dispose of laboratory waste according to institutional requirements and applicable regulations.