👉 In chemistry, a hydrocolloid is a type of colloidal solid. These are substances that can be used in various applications due to their ability to form a solid, such as in paints and coatings or in pharmaceuticals. Specifically, a hydrocolloid is defined as a substance that contains a polymer and an organic solvent. The polymer acts as the framework for the hydrocolloid, while the solvent provides the necessary solubility of the polymer in water.