Gel and gelling agent: understand, measure and optimize

gels and gelling agents are complex systems essential in many industrial products and formulations. Their structure, texture and behavior under stress determine the stability, processability and user experience.

At Rheonis, we support manufacturers in the characterization, optimization and control gels and gelling agents, with an approach multi-physical and adapted to industrial constraints.

A complete range of services for gel and gelling agent

Rheonis offers a integrated approach, ranging from measurement to industrial support:

Rheological characterization of gel and gelling agent

Viscosity, elasticity, fluidification, viscoelasticity.

Gel structure and microstructure analysis

Gel network, molecular interactions, particle distribution.

Gel and gelling agent stability assessment

Syneresis, phase separation, thermal and mechanical aging.

Optimization of gel and gelled formulations

Choice and dosage of gelling agents (natural: alginate, gelatin, pectin, carrageenans ; synthetic: carbomers, hydroxyethylcellulose, polyacrylate) and thickening agents.

Support for gel and gelling agent processes

Agitation, mixing, filling and packaging.

Support for gel innovation 

Development of innovative gels, personalized textures and industrial prototypes.

Measurements and analyses carried out

To understand and anticipate the behavior of gels and gelling agents, Rheonis uses:

• Rheology and behavior under stress : storage/loss modulus, creep, viscosity, elasticity.
• Physical chemistry : pH, molecular interactions, chemical composition.
• Microstructural analysis : gel network, particle distribution, optical observation and imaging.
• Stability and aging : syneresis, phase separation, influence of temperatures and storage.

Industrial applications

Gels and gelling agents are used in many sectors:

• Cosmetics : creams, hair and body gels, masks, innovative sensory textures.
• Food : sauces, jelly candies, desserts, fiber-enriched products.
• Pharmaceutical : topical gels, drug formulations, controlled release matrices.
• Paints, inks and varnishes : viscosity control, application and stability.
• Technical industry : gelled lubricants, adhesives and functional fluids.

Associated industrial processes

• Mixing and stirring
• Dispersion and hydration
• Filling and packaging
• Homogenization and emulsification
• Thermal control and process stability

Rheonis added values

• Interdisciplinary expertise : rheology, physicochemistry, mechanics and tribology applied to gels.
• Tailor-made methods adapted to specific formulations and processes.
• Performance optimization : texture, stability, processability and sensoriality.
• Strategic support : product innovation, industrialization and sustainability.

Useful links :

• Gel (Wikipedia)
• Case study: R&D study of influencing factors of gelling ingredients
• Case study: R&D study of the variability of gelled waters

Would you like to discuss your issues directly with our specialists? Do not hesitate to leave us a message, we will respond within 48 hours maximum.