How to Choose Correct Cellulose Ethers for Putty Powders？

1. What are wall putty and its functions

Cellulose ethers for putty is a broad cellulose ether application. Wall putty is a white fine powder that evens out the surface and creates a leveled surface for further coats of paint. Putty fills the minor cracks and pores on the walls. It further helps in removing any undulation on the wall. Thus in simple words, it can be safely said that before starting the paintwork, it is essential to apply it. Ideally, a minimum of two coats of putty should be used.

Wall putty is a material with high plasticity and resembles clay. Cellulose Ether is an additive used to enhance the functioning of wall putty and gives it better strength and better finish.

2. Functions of cellulose ethers for putty

Cellulose ether is a non-ionic semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose. Cellulose ethers are of two types water-soluble and solvent-soluble. It performs multiple-functions and is useful in different industries. In chemical industries, Cellulose ethers are used as a thickener, leveling property, water-retaining agent, binder, and film-former. These are also used as suspension aids, surfactants, lubricants, protective colloids, emulsifiers, dispersing agents, control release matrix material, etc. in various industries.

Cellulose ethers are widely used in various building materials and industries because of the range of collective effects it offers. Cellulose ethers for putty exert the following function, such as-

• Cellulose ether for wall putty improves the adhesion and mechanical properties of the putty
• Improves the solid force of the putty
• Gives Alkali resistance, wear-resistance, and improved flexural potency
• Improves the water and dispersion resistance of the putty
• Enhance the durability of the putty by improving impact resistance capacity
• Advance the water retention capacity of the putty

3. Effects of cellulose ethers with different viscosities on putty powders

Mixing cellulose ether, organobentonite, and starch ether make the special cellulose ether for putty. Cellulose ether serves the purpose of water conservation. Moreover, in the batch where putty is used for scraping purposes, the function of cellulose ether increases manifolds as it smoothens the surface. The range from 30000 to 50000 plays a very crucial role in the structure and finish of the end product.

For both dry powder putty and putty paste, the modified methylcellulose e hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ether is used. Since the role of cellulose ether HPMC in wall putty is water retention, lubrication, adhesion, etc., the viscosity range of 30000-60000cps is the most appropriate.

The viscosity ratio of cellulose ethers for putty is different depending upon the putty formulation as there are wall putty made up of light calcium, ash calcium, white cement, etc. whereas some manufacturers use gypsum powder instead of white cement. There are different effects of viscosity-

Effects of Low viscosity–low viscosity has poor water retention but is considered suitable for leveling.
Effects of middle viscosity-Medium viscosity range 75000-100000, used mainly for wall putty to provide superior water retention.
Effects of high viscosity-high viscosity of cellulose ethers for putty also enhance the putty viscosity. It helps in avoiding the occurrence of drooping in the construction and gives an easy and effort-saving wall scraping experience.

4. MIKEM Cellulose Ether Products for Putty Powders

MelaColl is a trademark for MIKEM’s cellulose products and derivatives. We offer both standard and customized/tailored grade products for your specific industrial application.

Mikrant is a trademark for MIKEM's redispersible polymer powder product. Our Mikrant RDP products form a complementary technology to our MelaColl cellulose portfolio.

4.1 For Cement-based Putty

The addition of our MelaColl cellulose ethers for putty and Mikrant products in cement-based putty applications can improve product performance in the following ways:

• Improved water retention and consistency
• Improved adhesion and cohesion
• Improved workability and processability
• Increased hydrophobicity

4.2 For Gray Calcium-based Putty

The addition of our MelaColl cellulose ethers for putty application can improve the following properties:

• Improved water retention
• Improved sag resistance
• Melhoria da trabalhabilidade
• Improved workability and processibility
• Improved adhesion and cohesion

4.3 For Gypsum-based Putty

Our MelaColl cellulose ether products are specially formulated additives that can enhance the performance and processing features of the gypsum products in the following ways:

• Good water retention and extended working time
• Consistência e reologia otimizadas do produto
• Reduced lump formation
• Improved adhesion and sag resistance

Please do not hesitate to contact our team for more information or to receive a sample if you are looking for a perfect cellulose ethers for putty to improve your project!