Description

Hydroxyethyl Starch is a semi-synthetic, water-soluble polymer derived from waxy maize or potato starch, modified by hydroxyethylation to enhance its stability and functionality. This modification is critical for its role as a highly effective plasma volume expander and rheology modifier in medical and industrial applications. It is essential for pharmaceutical manufacturers, biomedical researchers, and formulators in industries requiring advanced colloidal systems.

Application

• Pharmaceuticals: As a key colloid in plasma volume expanders for intravenous infusion therapy to treat hypovolemia and shock.
• Medical Devices: Used as a coating or stabilizer in diagnostic kits and as a component in biocompatible hydrogels for wound care.
• Biotechnology & Research: Serves as a cryoprotectant for cell and tissue preservation and as a viscosity-enhancing agent in cell culture media.
• Cosmetics & Personal Care: Functions as a film-forming agent, texture enhancer, and stabilizer in lotions, creams, and hair care products.
• Industrial Applications: Acts as a binder, thickener, and sizing agent in paper manufacturing, textiles, and adhesives.
• Food Industry (specific grades): Utilized as a thickener, stabilizer, and texturizing agent in sauces, desserts, and processed foods.

Basic Information

Product Name	Hydroxyethyl Starch
CAS No.	68512-26-5
Molecular Formula	(C6H10O5)n • (C2H4O)m
Molecular Weight	Variable (Polymer)
Synonyms	HES; Hetastarch; Hydroxyethyl Starch; Hydroxyethyl Ether Starch; Starch, 2-hydroxyethyl ether; Hydroxyethylamylopectin; Poly(O-2-hydroxyethyl)starch; Heta starch; Voluven® (trade name); Venofundin® (trade name); Tetrastarch; Pentastarch; Hexastarch
EINECS	Contact for details

Quality Control

Our Hydroxyethyl Starch is manufactured under strict quality management systems. We offer grades compliant with major pharmacopoeial standards, including USP, EP, and JP. Each batch undergoes comprehensive analytical testing to ensure critical parameters such as molecular weight distribution, degree of substitution, and purity meet stringent specifications. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is provided with every shipment.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at a controlled room temperature (15-25°C). This material is hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive); protect from humidity and absorb moisture promptly upon opening.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	White to off-white powder
Identification (IR)	Conforms
pH (10% solution)	5.0 - 7.5
Assay (Hydroxyethyl Content)	As per grade requirement
Degree of Substitution	0.4 - 0.7 (Typical)
Molecular Weight (Average)	Specified by grade (e.g., 130 kDa, 200 kDa, 450 kDa)
Loss on Drying	≤ 10.0 %
Residue on Ignition	≤ 1.0 %
Heavy Metals	≤ 20 ppm
Bacterial Endotoxins	< 0.5 EU/mg (for injectable grades)
Sterility (for sterile grades)	Sterile

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.