HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose) is a water-soluble polymer that has a variety of properties that make it a popular additive in many industries.

Some of the properties of HPMC include:

1. Water retention: HPMC can absorb and retain water, which makes it a popular additive in many construction materials such as mortar, grout, and stucco.

2. Thickening: HPMC can thicken liquids, which makes it useful in a variety of industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

3. Film-forming: When dried, HPMC can form a film that is transparent and flexible, which makes it useful in coatings, adhesives, and sealants.

4. Binding: HPMC can act as a binder and improve the strength and cohesion of materials such as tablets in the pharmaceutical industry.

Some of the common uses of HPMC include:

1. Construction materials: HPMC is commonly used in cementitious products such as mortars, stucco, and grout to improve water retention, workability, and adhesion.

2. Food industry: HPMC is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in food products such as ice cream, sauces, and dressings.

3. Pharmaceutical industry: HPMC is used as a binder, disintegrant, and controlled release agent in tablets and capsules.

4. Personal care products: HPMC is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and film-former in cosmetics and personal care products such as shampoos, lotions, and creams.

Overall, HPMC is a versatile polymer with a variety of properties that make it useful in many industries and applications.