Top 10 Companies in the Cellulose Ether for Building Material Industry (2026): Market Leaders Enhancing Construction Performance

In Business Insights
February 28, 2026


The Global Cellulose Ether for Building Material Market was valued at USD 1,970 Million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 3,202 Million by 2034, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.4% during the forecast period (2025–2034). This robust expansion is fueled by the sustained growth of the global construction sector, the rising demand for high-performance building materials, and the accelerating adoption of bio-based, sustainable additives in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.

As the construction industry prioritizes durability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, the focus shifts to the key chemical suppliers driving innovation in material science. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Cellulose Ether for Building Material Industry—a mix of global chemical titans and specialized manufacturers shaping the future of modern construction.


🔟 1. Ashland Global Holdings Inc.

Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, USA
Key Offering: Benecel™ Methyl Cellulose (MC), Walocel™ Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose (HEMC)

Ashland is a premier global specialty chemicals company and a leading supplier of cellulose ethers for the construction industry. Their high-purity products are essential for improving water retention, workability, and adhesion in dry-mix mortars, tile adhesives, and plasters. Ashland’s strong R&D focus ensures products meet stringent performance and sustainability standards.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of advanced low-dusting and fast-dissolving cellulose ether grades

  • Commitment to bio-based and sustainable product portfolios

  • Extensive technical support and formulation expertise for customers globally

Download FREE Sample Report:
Cellulose Ether for Building Material Market – View in Detailed Research Report


9️⃣ 2. The Dow Chemical Company

Headquarters: Midland, Michigan, USA
Key Offering: METHOCEL™ Cellulose Ethers (HPMC, HEMC)

Dow is a giant in the materials science sector, with its METHOCEL™ brand being synonymous with high-quality cellulose ethers. These products are critical additives that provide superior water retention, thickening, and sag resistance in cement-based applications. Dow’s global manufacturing footprint and technical capabilities make it a key partner for major construction material formulators.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Focus on products that enhance the durability and sustainability of building materials

  • Investment in R&D for next-generation construction chemicals


8️⃣ 3. Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Metolose® Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC)

Shin-Etsu is one of the world’s largest producers of HPMC, with a reputation for exceptional product quality and consistency. Their Metolose® series is widely used in dry-mix mortars, gypsum products, and tile adhesives across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The company’s vertical integration, from cellulose sourcing to finished product, ensures reliable supply.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Continuous improvement of product purity and performance characteristics

  • Expansion of production capacities to meet growing global demand


7️⃣ 4. CP Kelco

Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Key Offering: Cekol® and Genu® Cellulose Gums

CP Kelco is a leading producer of specialty hydrocolloids, including cellulose gum (Carboxymethyl Cellulose – CMC), which finds applications in construction materials for its thickening and water-binding properties. While more prominent in food and pharmaceuticals, its expertise in biopolymers is valuable for specific construction formulations requiring precise rheology control.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Expertise in natural ingredient-based solutions

  • Focus on sustainable sourcing and production processes


6️⃣ 5. Nouryon

Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Key Offering: Bermocoll® Ethyl Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (EHEC)

Nouryon is a global specialty chemicals leader, and its Bermocoll® product line is a key offering for the paints, coatings, and building materials markets. These cellulose ethers provide excellent thickening, stability, and water retention, particularly in spray-applied plasters and renders. Nouryon’s strong presence in Europe is a significant advantage.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of eco-premium solutions for sustainable construction

  • Product innovations aimed at improving application efficiency and performance

Download FREE Sample Report:
Cellulose Ether for Building Material Market – View in Detailed Research Report


5️⃣ 6. Chongqing Lihong Fine Chemicals Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Chongqing, China
Key Offering: Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC), Methyl Cellulose (MC)

Chongqing Lihong is a major Chinese manufacturer of cellulose ethers, playing a crucial role in supplying the vast Asia-Pacific construction market. The company offers a wide range of HPMC and MC grades at competitive prices, catering to the high-volume needs of dry-mix mortar plants and other building material producers.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Focus on cost-effective production to serve price-sensitive markets

  • Capacity expansions to keep pace with regional construction booms


4️⃣ 7. Shanghai Honest Chemical Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Shanghai, China
Key Offering: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC), Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC)

Shanghai Honest Chemical is a significant player in the Asian cellulose ether market. The company specializes in HEC and HPMC, which are critical for water retention and workability in construction applications. Its strategic location in China allows it to efficiently serve both domestic and international customers.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Investment in production technology to enhance product quality

  • Growing export-oriented business to global markets


3️⃣ 8. Shandong Head Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Shandong, China
Key Offering: Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC), Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

Shandong Head has established itself as a leading producer of cellulose ethers in China. The company’s extensive product portfolio serves various industries, with building materials being a key segment. Its competitive pricing and reliable supply make it a preferred supplier for many construction chemical companies.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Continuous modernization of manufacturing facilities

  • Focus on meeting international quality standards for export markets


2️⃣ 9. Sichuan Nanjiang New Materials Co., Ltd. (ShenGuang)

Headquarters: Sichuan, China
Key Offering: Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC)

Operating under the ShenGuang brand, this company is another formidable Chinese manufacturer specializing in HPMC for construction. It benefits from proximity to raw materials and has developed a strong reputation for quality and consistency, supplying both the domestic Chinese market and international clients.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Strategic focus on the high-growth construction sector in Asia

  • Investment in R&D to develop specialized grades for different applications


1️⃣ 10. Ugur Seluloz Kimya A.S.

Headquarters: Istanbul, Turkey
Key Offering: Hydroxyethyl Methyl Cellulose (HEMC), Methyl Cellulose (MC)

Ugur Seluloz Kimya is a key regional player strategically located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The company supplies cellulose ethers to the building materials markets in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and North Africa. Its regional expertise and understanding of local construction practices provide a distinct competitive advantage.

Innovation & Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Catering to specific regional construction requirements and standards

  • Building strong distribution networks across emerging markets

Get Full Report Here:
Cellulose Ether for Building Material Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Cellulose Ether for Building Materials Is Smarter and Greener

The cellulose ether for building material market is undergoing a significant transformation. While traditional applications in dry-mix mortars continue to dominate, the industry is investing in high-performance, sustainable formulations, advanced manufacturing technologies, and tailored solutions for emerging markets.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • R&D into modified cellulose ethers with enhanced properties like enzyme resistance and faster dissolution

  • Strong regulatory and consumer push for green building materials, favoring bio-based cellulose ethers

  • Digitalization of supply chains and formulation processes for greater efficiency

  • Strategic partnerships between cellulose ether producers and construction companies to develop innovative materials

Get Full Report Here:
Cellulose Ether for Building Material Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only supplying essential additives—they’re enabling the construction of more durable, efficient, and sustainable buildings worldwide.