Physical properties and applications of aqueous solutions of <i>Albizia zygia</i> gum

Abstract

Abstract Some physical properties of aqueous solutions of African Albizia zygia (D.C.) Macbride have been evaluated. Approximately 80% of the gum is soluble in the cold with the remainder dispersed as fine particles of gel. pH titration of the gum indicates one acid group, p K a = 3.8, for every three monosaccharide units. Solutions of the gum exhibit typical polyelectrolyte behaviour. The viscosity of the solutions increases with concentration but above 1.5% the solutions exhibit shear‐thinning. The viscosity of an ice cream mix containing the gum and the properties of the resultant ice cream are compared with standard mixes.