Abstract
At the submicron scale, food biopolymer networks can be visualized by a wide array of microscopic techniques, but these methods are mostly invasive and require careful image analysis in order to quantify network features. ‘Nanoparticle diffusometry’ provides a non-invasive alternative to infer quantitative submicron structural information about biopolymer networks. In this approach, spectroscopy-based methods are used to monitor hindered diffusion of nanoparticles due to network obstructions. Both rigid-spherical and flexible nanoparticles can be used and models are available to derive structural network parameters. A range of applications to polysaccharide and protein sols and gels has been described. The approach offers opportunities to assess (sub-)micron scale network heterogeneity and changes in sub-micron structure under dynamical conditions such as shear or aging.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 13-26 |
Journal | Trends in Food Science and Technology |
Volume | 42 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2015 |
Keywords
- semidilute polymer-solutions
- field gradient nmr
- fluorescence correlation spectroscopy
- casein gel microstructure
- globular protein gels
- self-diffusion
- pfg-nmr
- probe diffusion
- poly(ethylene glycol)s
- aggregation phenomena