The stability of a suspension or emulsion is affected by both its rheological properties and its charge. Measurement of the particle charge, or more strictly zeta potential, and how it changes as a function of the concentration of an additive such as citric acid, or a salt to a food product, is important when trying to improve product shelf life. The MPT-2 autotitrator allows such parameters to be changed automatically, and the resultant change in charge (and hence stability), monitored.
The appearance of a haze in beer and wine is unwelcome to the brewer, as it occurs or is noticed only in the final stages of the production process. It is often due to the presence of yeast, yeast debris or aggregated proteins. As well as spoiling the aesthetic appearance of the drink, it can affect the taste and smell of the product which is obviously of great importance to the consumer. Studying the zeta potential, one of the colloidal parameters responsible for particle stability and flocculation, can assist in identifying the origin of the problem.
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