What is Co-processed MCC-CMC (Colloidal Grade Microcrystalline Cellulose)
Co-processed MCC-CMC is not a chemically copolymerized polymer; it is a physically modified composite powder, commonly known as colloidal-grade microcrystalline cellulose in the industry. It is produced as follows: high-purity plant-derived α-cellulose is subjected to acid hydrolysis to prepare microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). During wet grinding, MCC particles are coated with aqueous sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na) solution of specific degree of substitution, followed by homogenization, emulsification and spray drying to form final fine white powder. In the finished product, MCC microcrystals are encapsulated by CMC, which solves two core drawbacks: poor water dispersibility of neat MCC and susceptibility of pure CMC to demulsification caused by calcium and magnesium cations
Product Properties of Co-processed MCC-CMC
- Dispersion Property: It hydrates and disperses under high-speed shearing in cold water without heating for dissolution. CMC dissolves preferentially to form an outer protective colloid, while unfolded MCC microcrystals construct a 3D hydrogen-bonded network structure.
- Thixotropic Property: The system turns thin under agitation for easy construction and thickens at rest to lock suspended solids, representing a typical shear-thinning colloid.
- Salt Resistance Advantage: The non-ionic MCC backbone endows resistance against Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ and inorganic ions from cement, overcoming the defect of neat CMC that flocculates and fails in the presence of polyvalent metal ions.
- pH Compatibility: Applicable within pH 3.0–9.5, showing superior stability in acidic and alkaline systems compared with PVA and pure CMC
Main Applications of Co-processed MCC-CMC
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Application scope: oral suspensions, pediatric syrups, nasal sprays, topical creams and dry suspensions.
- Food Industry
- Application scope: yoghurt, plant-based milk, salad dressing, oyster sauce, seasonings, low-fat meat products, ham sausages, frozen beverages and ice cream
