Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) is a water-soluble polymer that has a wide range of applications across various industries. Here are some of the common uses of HEC:

1. Personal care products: HEC is commonly used in personal care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and creams, as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of these products and enhances their performance.
2. Paints and coatings: HEC is used in the formulation of water-based paints and coatings as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and rheology modifier. It helps to improve the flow and leveling properties of the paint and prevents sagging and dripping.
3. Pharmaceutical industry: HEC is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a binder, disintegrant, and sustained-release agent in tablet formulations. It also finds applications in ophthalmic and nasal formulations as a viscosity enhancer and mucoadhesive agent.
4. Food industry: HEC is used in the food industry as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in various food products, such as sauces, dressings, and dairy products. It helps to improve the texture and mouthfeel of these products and enhances their stability.
5. Construction industry: HEC is used in the construction industry as a rheology modifier, thickener, and water retention agent in cement-based products, such as mortar, grout, and concrete. It helps to improve their workability, flow properties, and adhesion properties.

Overall, the versatility of HEC makes it an essential ingredient in various industries, including personal care, paints and coatings, pharmaceuticals, food, and construction. Its properties as a thickening agent, stabilizer, rheology modifier, and water retention agent make it a valuable additive for improving the performance of various products.