3. Physico-chemical properties
The main physico-chemical properties of xanthan gum are linked to interactions between macromolecules and water. The first step is to dissolve the polysaccharide.
Solubility
Xanthan gum is soluble in cold water (from 10 to 20 ˚C). Solubilization takes place in two stages. The first stage is the dispersion of the grains making up the powder, i.e. the individualization of the particles. The larger the grain size, the faster the dispersion. The second stage is hydration. Water molecules gradually attach themselves to the macromolecules, reducing solute-solute interactions until the macromolecules become individualized. Gums feature hydroxyl groups and negative charges that facilitate solute-water interaction. In addition, the branches spread the main chains apart, facilitating hydration. Hydration is considered...
Exclusive to subscribers. 97% yet to be discovered!
Already subscribed? Log in!
Physico-chemical properties
Applications
Article included in this offer
"Unit operations. Chemical reaction engineering"
(
343 articles
)
Updated and enriched with articles validated by our scientific committees
A set of exclusive tools to complement the resources
Economic data
The world market for xanthan gum exceeded 30,000 t in 1998, and is growing at over 5% a year. Xanthan gum is highly developed in the United States and, to a lesser extent, in Europe. Continued growth in the United States, the Americanization of food habits in Europe and innovation in the mass retail sector (detergents, cosmetics, etc.) are the driving forces behind xanthan gum's development.
The...
Exclusive to subscribers. 97% yet to be discovered!
Already subscribed? Log in!
