Water solubility of CMC would increase with decreased DP and increased carboxymethyl substitution and substitution uniformity. the viscosity of the solution increases with increasing DP and increasing concentration.

CMC is soluble in water at any temperature. Because of its highly hygroscopic nature, CMC hydrates rapidly. Rapid hydration may cause agglomeration and lump formation when the CMC powder is introduced into water. Lump creation can be eliminated by applying high agitation while the powder is added into the water or preblending the CMC powder with other dry ingredients such as sugar before adding into water.

Due to its high solubility and clarity of its solutions, CMC is commonly used in beverages and beverage dry mixes to provide rich mouthfeel. It is also used in acidified protein drinks to stabilize protein and prevent it from precipitating. CMC is also added to syrup and sauce formulations to increase viscosity. Bakery is another application where CMC is commonly used to improve the quality and the consistency of the end product. In tortilla breads, for example, it is used to improve the process ability of the dough and the textural properties of the end product, including foldability and rollability.

PH  (1% solution)     6.08.5
Degree of substitution     0.700.90
Purity  %     Min 99.5
Loss on drying     Max 10.0
Coliform( MPN/100g)     Max30
Salmonella     absent/g