The global HPMC market is projected to grow at a considerable rate over the next few years. Factors contributing to this growth include the increasing adoption of HPMC in pharmaceutical formulations and the rising demand for natural and organic food products. The pharmaceutical industry particularly benefits from HPMC due to its ability to enhance the release profiles of drugs, improve tablet coating, and act as a protective barrier against moisture.

The precipitated hydroxyethyl cellulose is then washed to remove any remaining impurities or solvent residues. This is usually done using water or organic solvents. Once purified, the cellulose is dried, commonly in a vacuum dryer or rotary evaporator, to obtain a free-flowing powder. The drying process must be carefully executed to avoid degradation of the hydroxyethyl groups and to maintain the polymer's characteristics.