Xanthum Gum

In the oil industry, Xanthan gum is used in large quantities, usually to thicken drilling mud. These fluids serve to carry the solids cut by the drilling bit back to the surface. Xanthan gum provides great "low end" rheology. When the circulation stops, the solids still remain suspended in the drilling fluid. The widespread use of horizontal drilling and the demand for good control of drilled solids has led to its expanded use. It has also been added to concrete poured underwater, to increase its viscosity and prevent washout.

In cosmetics, Xanthan gum is used to prepare water gels, usually in conjunction with bentonite clays. It is also used in oil-in-water emulsions to help stabilize the oil droplets against coalescence. It has some skin hydrating properties. Xanthan gum is a common ingredient in fake blood recipes, and in gunge/slime.

Dosage

Depending on the requirement 0.1-0.5% calculated based on the water content.

Solutions should not contain more than 1% Xanthum Gum.Considerably higher concentrations ensure no homogenous Dispersion.

Processing

Due to its specialized chemical surface treatment, the products tend not to clump. It can be incorporated with low shear forces. Solution can be created by simply stirring it into water.

IT should be prepared an neutral to acidic pH-value- ranges. The viscosity increases in this case as a function of time until complete swelling occurs. Immediate viscosity build up can be achieved by alkalizing the solution.

Physical Properties :

Appearance   : Soluble white to off white powder or granules
Odour            : Slight
pH                 : 7 ± 1.5
Melting point  : Not Applicable
Boiling point  : N/A – solid
Bulk density  : 550-850 kg/m3 (depending upon grade)
Solubility       : Soluble in Water, but forms very viscous solutions which become Pasty at concentrations greater than 5%

Conservation

Solution of Xanthum Gum should be preserved if they are to be stored for more than 24 hours. Compatibility is given with preservatives which are common in the paint industry.

Storage conditions

Xanthum Gum can be stored for at least 24 months at room temperature and dry conditions.

Xanthum Gum should be stored cool (max 30° C) and dry (max 70% relative humidity) in closed packages.

Package Sizes

Paper / Hdpe bag (25kg net)

Safety Regulations

According to regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 Xanthum Gum is not classified as a dangerous product and therefore does not need to be labeled.

Due to the fine fractions of the product, measures for dust protection must be heeded and the buildup of electrostatic charge must be avoided.