Natrosol is a cellulose-based product etherified to a hydroxyethyl ether. It is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer in powder form, soluble in both cold and hot water, with limited solubility in organic solvents.
Natrosol works as a thickener, rheology modifier, stabiliser, suspending agent, protective colloid and water retention agent.
Natrosol HEC Types
The two main groups we supply, distinguished by resistance to enzymatic biodegradation.
| Category | Description | Natrosol types |
|---|---|---|
| Natrosol 250 HEC — Non-biostable / non enzyme-resistant | Protective colloid in polymerisation, or for systems with good microbial control. | Natrosol 250 LR, Natrosol 250 HR |
| Natrosol 250 HEC — Biostable / enzyme-resistant | Excellent resistance to microbial biodegradation. Available in several viscosity levels from 1000–7000 cps (1% solution) to suit different emulsion paints. Good thickening efficiency, colour acceptance and in-can stability. Not sensitive to pH or surfactants. | Natrosol 250 MHBR, 250 HBR, 250 H4BR, 250 HHBR, 250 HHBR 5070 |
Key Applications
- Water-based paints and coatingsThickener and rheology modifier — controls viscosity, spreading and sag resistance
- Emulsions and polymersStabiliser and protective colloid during emulsion polymerisation
- Oil drilling fluidsThickener and filtration control
- Adhesives and cement-based productsWater retention agent
- Personal care and detergentsNon-ionic thickener compatible with a wide range of formulations
Benefits
- Soluble in cold and hot water
- Non-ionic — not sensitive to pH or surfactants
- Available in a viscosity range of 1000–7000 cps (1% solution)
- Biostable types resist enzymatic biodegradation
- Good thickening efficiency, colour acceptance and in-can stability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Natrosol HEC and what does it do?
Natrosol is hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) from Ashland — a non-ionic cellulose polymer in powder form that dissolves in cold and hot water. It works as a thickener, rheology modifier, stabiliser, suspending agent, protective colloid and water retention agent.
What is the difference between biostable and non-biostable Natrosol?
Biostable (enzyme-resistant) types resist biodegradation by microbial enzymes, so paint viscosity does not drop in storage. Non-biostable types suit systems that already have good microbial control, for example as a protective colloid in polymerisation.
Which Natrosol type is most used for wall paint?
Emulsion and wall paints generally use biostable types such as Natrosol 250 HBR and 250 HHBR, which we stock in Jakarta and Surabaya. Other types can be ordered on request.
Is Natrosol sensitive to pH and surfactants?
No. Natrosol is non-ionic, so it is not sensitive to pH changes or to surfactants in the formulation.
What is the packaging and minimum order?
Natrosol is packed in 25 kg bags. Stock is held in Jakarta and Surabaya; contact us for pricing and minimum order.
Can I request a sample and documents?
Yes. We provide samples for trials at your plant, plus TDS, COA and MSDS on request.
Who is the Natrosol distributor in Indonesia?
PT Chemifin Jaya Utama is an Ashland distributor for Natrosol HEC in Indonesia, with stock in Jakarta and Surabaya. Contact info@chemifin.com or WhatsApp 0811 154 343.
See Also
- Titanium DioxideWhite pigment for paint
- Dispersing Agent Liosperse 657APigment dispersant for solvent-based paint
- Defoamer (Anti Busa)Controls foam in paint production (Indonesian)
- Paxgard BiocideIn-can preservative for emulsion paint (Indonesian)