Products
Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is available as a pure substance in specialized stores. It is included in numerous tablets as an excipient.
Structure and properties
Microcrystalline cellulose is a purified, partially depolymerized cellulose. It is produced by mineral acid treatment (e.g., hydrochloric acid) from α-cellulose obtained as pulp from plant fibers. Microcrystalline cellulose exists as a white, fine or granular powder and is practically insoluble in water.
Areas of application
As a pharmaceutical excipient:
- As a binder, filler, carrier and disintegrant (disintegrant) for tablets and sometimes for capsules. Microcrystalline cellulose is commonly used for direct tableting.
Other applications:
- As a thickener, stabilizer and viscosity enhancer.
- As a calorie-free dietary fiber in food technology.
