A non-ionic cellulose ether with a remarkable combination of properties making it of great interest to the book conservator for use as a consolidant. pH (1% solution 5.0-8.5). As content (calculated as Na2SO4) : 0.5% max, silica free. Viscosity (2% solution) 150-400 MPAS. Soluble in water below 38 celsius. Insoluble in water above 40 celsius. Soluble in many polar organic solvents such as Methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol (95%). Insoluble in toluene, xylene or trichloethylee. Highly surface active. Extremely flexible without plasticizers in films and coatings. Medium viscosity.