Xanthan gum NEW

Xanthan gum Cas 11138-66-2

Specification

Welcome to contact with us to get more information.

Xanthan gum is a high-molecular-weight exopolysaccharide (a complex sugar polymer secreted by microorganisms). It is produced industrially through the fermentation of glucose or sucrose by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Its unique structure, consisting of a cellulose backbone with trisaccharide side chains, gives it exceptional functional properties in aqueous systems.

Key Chemical & Physical Properties

1. Solubility: Soluble in both hot and cold water. It does not dissolve in most organic solvents.

2. Rheology Modifier: Its primary function is to dramatically increase the viscosity of water even at low concentrations (e.g., 1% can form a thick solution).

3. Pseudoplasticity (Shear-Thinning): Xanthan gum solutions are non-Newtonian. They are thick at rest but become thin and flow easily under shear stress (shaking, stirring, pumping). This property is reversible.

4. Stability: Highly stable over a wide range of pH (3–12) and temperatures (resists thermal degradation). It is also resistant to enzymatic breakdown (except by specific xanthanases).

5. Synergistic Interactions: Works well with other hydrocolloids like guar gum and locust bean gum, often forming stronger gels or enhanced viscosities.

6. Suspension & Emulsion Stabilizer: Its viscous, pseudoplastic nature effectively suspends solid particles and stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions by preventing settling and coalescence.

Uses in Chemical & Industrial Applications

While famous as a food additive (E415), xanthan gum is a versatile, water-soluble polymer with significant non-food industrial uses, often valued as a rheology control agent, stabilizer, and suspending agent.

1. Oil & Gas Industry (Major Consumer)

• Drilling Fluids ("Mud"): Used in water-based drilling muds to:

• Carry rock cuttings to the surface (suspension property).

  Lubricate and cool the drill bit.

  Control fluid loss into formations, thanks to its excellent viscosity under low shear.

• Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR): Thickens the water injected into reservoirs to improve "sweep efficiency" and displace more crude oil.

2. Agrochemicals

• Suspension Concentrates (SC): Prevents the settling of solid pesticide particles in tank mixes and commercial formulations, ensuring uniform application.

  Adjuvants: Added to herbicide or pesticide sprays to increase droplet viscosity, reduce drift, and improve adhesion to plant foliage.

3. Paints, Coatings, and Adhesives

• Rheology Modifier: Provides desired thixotropy (shear-thinning) for:

• Paints/Inks: Prevents sagging on vertical surfaces, yet allows easy brushing or spraying. Also suspends pigments.

  Adhesives/Glues: Controls spreadability and penetration.

4. Construction & Building Materials

• Cement & Grout Additive: Improves workability, water retention, and reduces segregation/settling of particles.

  Tile Adhesives & Joint Compounds: Enhances application properties and sag resistance.

5. Ceramics

• Used in ceramic slips and glazes to control rheology, ensuring uniform coating and preventing settling of solid particles.

6. Textile & Paper Printing

• Thickens dye pastes and printing inks to achieve sharp print definition and prevent bleeding.

7. Cosmetics & Toiletries

• Acts as a thickener, stabilizer, and suspending agent in:

• Lotions, creams, and shampoos (stabilizes emulsions).

  Toothpastes (provides gel structure and suspension of abrasives).

8. Pharmaceuticals

• Used as a suspending agent in liquid drug formulations (e.g., antibiotic syrups) and as a stabilizer in emulsions.

9. Laboratory & Analytical Chemistry

• Gel Electrophoresis: Sometimes used as a matrix for separating large DNA molecules.

  Rheology Standard: Used as a reference material for studying the flow properties of complex fluids.

Comparison to Other Chemical Thickeners

Summary

Xanthan gum is a microbial polysaccharide that acts as a powerful, multifunctional rheology modifier in aqueous systems. Its most valuable chemical properties are high low-shear viscosity, strong shear-thinning behavior, and exceptional stability under harsh conditions (pH, temperature, salt). Beyond its well-known food applications, it is a critical additive in oil drilling fluids, agrochemical suspensions, paints, construction materials, and ceramics, where precise control of flow, stability, and suspension is required. Its biodegradability and non-toxic nature further expand its utility in environmentally sensitive applications.

Packages

Delivery

Payment term

* Wire Transfer/Telegraphic Transfer

* Western Union

* MoneyGram

* L/C

Contact information

Spring Zhang

Email: export@fortunachem.com  

Skype: Fortunachem201304       

QQ:3169620873

Tel:   +86-27-59207892

Website: www.fortunachem.com