What is Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)?
Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) is a versatile and widely used derivative of cellulose, which is a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. CMC is synthesized through the chemical modification of cellulose, resulting in the substitution of hydroxyl groups with carboxymethyl groups. This modification enhances the water solubility and rheological properties of cellulose, making CMC an essential ingredient in various industries. CMC has a linear structure and is composed of repeating units of glucose molecules linked together. The carboxymethyl groups are attached to the glucose units, imparting anionic properties to CMC. The degree of substitution (DS) refers to the average number of carboxymethyl groups per glucose unit and determines the properties of CMC, including its solubility, viscosity, and stability. One of the primary characteristics of CMC is its excellent water solubility. When dispersed in water, CMC forms colloidal solutions or gels depending on the concentration. Thi...