Description
Description
Xanthan Gum is a high-molecular-weight extracellular polysaccharide produced by Xanthomonas fermentation. Its cellulose-like backbone with charged trisaccharide side chains creates strong hydration and a highly pseudoplastic flow profile, making xanthan useful for suspension, yield stress, and low-shear viscosity.
Chemical & Technical Profile
| INCI / Identity | Xanthan Gum |
|---|---|
| CAS No. | 11138-66-2 |
| Molecular Formula | Anionic microbial polysaccharide |
| Molecular Weight | High molecular weight |
| Physical Form | Off-white to cream powder |
| Solubility | Water-soluble/dispersible; develops pseudoplastic viscosity |
| Functional Category | Natural-origin rheology modifier / suspension aid |
Mechanism of Action / Technical Function
Hydrated xanthan chains form an ordered, extended polymer network stabilized by hydrogen bonding and ionic interactions. The resulting solution exhibits high viscosity at low shear but thins strongly during pumping or application. This pseudoplasticity is valuable for suspending particles while maintaining easy spreadability.
Formulation Guidelines
Pre-disperse in glycerin, glycol, or another nonaqueous carrier, then add to water under good agitation to prevent fish-eyes. Allow complete hydration before judging final viscosity. Xanthan tolerates broad pH and electrolyte ranges but can produce stringy or slimy sensory properties at excessive level. Blending with cellulose or acrylic thickeners often improves texture.
Compatibility & Stability
Monitor viscosity, yield behavior, syneresis, microbial quality, and compatibility with cationic surfactants. Strongly cationic systems can precipitate anionic xanthan. Enzymatic contamination can reduce viscosity. Viscosity and structure should be released only after the batch has reached a defined equilibration period, not immediately after manufacture.
R&D, Scale-Up & Quality Control
R&D qualification of Xanthan Gum should include Xanthan dispersion, hydration completeness, yield stress, and microbial quality. For manufacturing scale-up, define and control pre-wetting, powder charging rate, electrolyte sequence, and final deaeration rather than transferring only the ingredient percentages. The batch is technically acceptable when the system delivers suspension without fish-eyes, excessive stringiness, or cationic incompatibility.
Packaging, Shipping & Storage
Supplied in a sealed aluminum pouch. Store tightly closed, cool, dry, and protected from humidity. Prevent dust generation during manufacturing.
Estimated Delivery: 10–15 Business Days
Applications
Gels, emulsions, suspensions, masks, shampoos, natural-positioned serums, oral-care systems, and particle-containing formulations.
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