Product Description
Having extensive knowledge of the domain, we are engaged in offering our clients Microcrystalline Cellulose. The offered product is the form of refined wood pulp. It is widely used in various applications of food production as a texturizer, an anti-caking agent, a fat substitute, an emulsifier, an extender, and a bulking agent. It is commonly used in vitamin supplements or tablets. It can be synthesized using different processes such as steam explosion, reactive extrusion, enzyme mediated, and acid hydrolysis.
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Microcrystalline Cellulose Properties:
- CAS Number: 9004 34 6
- Molecular Formula: (C6H10O5)n
- Appearance: White crystal powder
- Density: 1.5 g/cm3
- Melting Point: between 260 to 270 degree centigrade
Applications of Microcrystalline Cellulose:
1. Pharmaceutical industry: MCC is widely used as an excipient in pharmaceuticals due to its properties such as improved flow, compressibility, and binding. It is commonly used as a binder, disintegrant, and diluent in tablet formulations.
2. Food industry: Microcrystalline Cellulose is used as a bulking agent, stabilizer, and thickener in food products. It is commonly used in low-fat and gluten-free foods, as well as in products such as salad dressings, sauces, and bakery products.
3. Cosmetics and personal care industry: MCC is used in cosmetics and personal care products as a thickener and emulsifier. It is commonly used in lotions, creams, and makeup products.
4. Paint and coatings industry: Microcrystalline Cellulose is used as a thickener and suspension agent in paint and coatings formulations. It helps to improve the stability and flow properties of the final product.
5. Chemical industry: MCC is used as a filler and binder in various chemical applications such as in the production of ceramics, rubber, and plastics.
6. Agriculture industry: It is used as an additive in animal feed to improve the texture and binding properties of the feed.
7. Other applications: Microcrystalline Cellulose is also used in other applications such as in the production of batteries, paper, and textiles.
Manufacturing Process:
Different processes are available for the synthesis of MCC, including reaction extrusion, enzyme mediated, steam explosion, and acid hydrolysis. A neutralized aqueous slurry of hydrolyzed cellulose is commonly spray-dried into an intermediate product. It is used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food industries.
How to use:
Microcrystalline cellulose is an excipient that is commonly used for direct compression, according to many publications. In addition, it also functions as a hard, dry binder, tablet disintegrant, absorbent, lubricant, and anti-adhesive.
Side effects:
You may experience discomfort/irritation/redness, tearing, light sensitivity, sticky eyelashes, or temporarily blurred vision. In the event of any of these side effects persisting or worsening, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Warnings and precautions while using this product:
Containers should be tightly sealed. In tightly closed containers, store in a cool, dry place. Workplace ventilation should be adequate. Information on explosions and fires: None known.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is microcrystalline cellulose?
Ans: It is a white, odorless, crystalline powder that is made from natural cellulose fibers. It is commonly used as an excipient, or inactive ingredient, in pharmaceuticals and food products.
2. How is microcrystalline cellulose made?
Ans: It is typically produced by treating natural cellulose fibers with various acids and then grinding the resulting material into a fine powder. The size of the particles can vary depending on the intended use.
3. What are the uses of microcrystalline cellulose?
Ans: This chemical compound is commonly used as an excipient in pharmaceuticals to improve the flow and compressibility of tablet formulations. It is also used as a bulking agent, stabilizer, and thickener in food products. In addition, it is sometimes used in cosmetics and personal care products.
4. Is microcrystalline cellulose safe?
Ans: Yes, this chemical compound is generally considered safe for human consumption. It is approved by regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for use in food and drug products.
5. Can microcrystalline cellulose cause any side effects?
Ans: MCC is generally well-tolerated and does not cause any serious side effects. However, some people may experience minor gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions.
6. Can microcrystalline cellulose be used by vegans?
Ans: Yes, MCC is vegan-friendly as it is derived from natural cellulose fibers and does not contain any animal products.
7. Is microcrystalline cellulose gluten-free?
Ans: Yes, MCC is gluten-free as it is derived from cellulose and does not contain any wheat, rye, or barley.
8. How should microcrystalline cellulose be stored?
Ans: It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. It should be kept in a sealed container to prevent contamination.
9. Can microcrystalline cellulose be used in home cooking?
Ans: While MCC is safe for human consumption, it is not typically used in home cooking as it is primarily used as an excipient in pharmaceuticals and a food additive.
10. Is microcrystalline cellulose biodegradable?
Ans: Yes, it is biodegradable as it is made from natural cellulose fibers. It is broken down by bacteria and other microorganisms in the environment.