CMC is cheap and dissolves in water to form a gelatinous solution with a reticulated structure. It has the function of thickening and stabilizing the paste. And it is a common thickening agent for toothpaste at home and abroad.
CMC is not actually dissolved in water, it is disaggregated. And when it encounters water, it first exists in a powder state, neither swelling nor disaggregating. After a certain period of time, it gradually absorbs water and swells and disperses to form a viscous solution, with the viscosity rising to a maximum value. The viscosity of toothpaste thickened entirely with CMC will only reach its maximum value after 2 to 4 weeks of storage.
CMC in toothpaste
The viscosity of a 2% aqueous solution of CMC for toothpaste is measured with a DNJ-79 viscometer. And it is generally in the range of 900 – 1200 mPa -. Its viscosity is influenced by soluble electrolytes, especially sodium salts and heavy metals. And it is also susceptible to biodegradation by the action of enzymes. The combination with sodium hydroxyethyl cellulose, silicon dioxide, xanthan gum, modified guar gum and carrageenan can further increase the salt and enzyme resistance, making the paste more delicate and brighter.
Landcel is a professional cmc manufacturer, producing many types of CMC, welcome to enquire.