Xanthan gum
Xanthan gum, identified by CAS number 11138-66-2, is a high-molecular-weight extracellular polysaccharide produced through the aerobic fermentation of carbohydrates by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Chemically, it consists of a cellulose-like backbone with trisaccharide side chains, providing it with unique rheological properties. This white to cream-colored powder is highly soluble in both hot and cold water, forming viscous solutions even at low concentrations.
In industrial and research contexts, xanthan gum is valued for its exceptional stability across a broad range of temperatures and pH levels. It exhibits significant pseudoplastic behavior, meaning its viscosity decreases under shear stress and recovers almost instantly when the stress is removed. This characteristic makes it an indispensable rheology modifier for stabilizing suspensions and emulsions in diverse formulations.
• In the food and personal care industries, it serves as a primary thickening and stabilizing agent. It prevents ingredient separation in salad dressings, sauces, and beverages by creating a complex network that traps oil droplets and solid particles. In cosmetic formulations like lotions and shampoos, it enhances texture and provides a smooth, uniform application while maintaining product integrity during storage.
• The material is extensively utilized in the oil and gas sector as a key component of drilling fluids. Its shear-thinning properties allow drilling mud to flow easily during circulation while becoming highly viscous when pumping stops, effectively suspending drill cuttings and preventing them from settling. Its resistance to thermal degradation and high salinity makes it ideal for challenging subterranean environments.
• Within the manufacturing and agrochemical sectors, xanthan gum acts as a binder and suspension aid for pigments, pesticides, and fertilizers. It ensures that active ingredients remain evenly distributed in liquid concentrates, facilitating precise application and improving the adherence of sprays to leaf surfaces or industrial substrates.
Product Name: Xanthan gum
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