HPMC serves primarily as a dispersing agent in the production of polyvinyl chloride and acts as a crucial auxiliary component for creating PVC through suspension polymerization. In the construction sector, it finds widespread use in mechanized tasks like wall masonry, plastering, and caulking. Specifically in decorative construction, it proves valuable for adhering tiles, marbles, and plastic decorations due to its strong bonding properties, allowing for reduced cement usage. Furthermore, within the coating industry, HPMC functions as a thickening agent, enhancing the brightness and smoothness of layers while preventing powdering and improving overall leveling performance.

In both cement mortar and gypsum-based slurry, HPMC primarily functions to retain water and thicken the mixture, significantly enhancing adhesion and resistance to slumping. Various factors such as air temperature, ambient temperature, and wind pressure speed affect the rate at which water evaporates from cement mortar and gypsum-based products.

Consequently, the water retention capacity of the same quantity of HPMC can differ across different seasons. In practical construction, adjusting the water retention capability of the slurry is achievable by varying the amount of HPMC added. The ability of methyl cellulose ether to retain water under high temperatures is a critical parameter for assessing the quality of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose ether. Superior products within the hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose series effectively address water retention issues in high-temperature environments.

In hot and dry regions, particularly during high-temperature seasons and in thin-layer construction on sun-exposed sides, the demand for high-quality HPMC becomes crucial to enhance the slurry's water retention capabilities.

In order to set cementitious materials such as cement and gypsum, water is required for hydration. The correct amount of HPMC can maintain the moisture in the mortar for a long enough time so that the setting and hardening process can continue.

The required quantity of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) needed for adequate water retention hinges on several factors:

1. The absorbency of the base layer

2. Composition of the mortar

3. Thickness of the mortar layer

4. Water requirement of the mortar

5. Setting time of the cementitious material

HPMC can disperse uniformly and effectively within cement mortar and gypsum-based products. It coats all solid particles and forms a wetting film layer, gradually releasing water from the base over an extended period. This hydration process ensures the bonding and compressive strength of the cementitious material.

During high-temperature summer construction, sufficient quantities of high-quality HPMC must be added according to a specified formula to achieve effective water retention. Otherwise, inadequate hydration may lead to reduced strength, cracking, hollowing, and detachment due to excessive drying. Additionally, this situation can heighten the challenges faced by construction workers. As temperatures decrease, the amount of HPMC added can be gradually reduced while still maintaining the same level of water retention.