Deuteron XG

Deuteron XG is a thickener based on xanthan gum, a natural biopolymer derived from polysaccharides. It is soluble in both cold and hot water, producing pseudoplastic (shear-thinning) solutions. These solutions exhibit tolerance to a wide range of temperatures and pH levels, although depolymerization and viscosity decrease may occur at pH levels below 2 or above 12.

This product is stable in the presence of up to 40% organic solvents such as alcohols or glycol ethers, but it is insoluble in pure organic solvents. It is compatible with anionic and non-ionic systems but may encounter incompatibilities in cationic systems.

Deuteron XG creates strong structural viscosity, which decreases with increased shear force but quickly returns to its base viscosity when the shear force is removed. This property prevents settling of pigments and fillers and separation of the liquid phase during storage, enhancing stability and anti-sagging behavior.

It finds application in various industries, including water-based coatings and printing inks, pigment concentrates, emulsion paints and plasters, water-based adhesives, and cleaning products.

The dosage of Deuteron XG varies depending on the desired properties, ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% for thickening and gel formation, 0.1% to 0.3% for stabilizing solids against sedimentation, and 0.1% to 0.5% for anti-sagging purposes.

In processing, Deuteron XG tends to form lumps due to rapid hydration, so it is recommended to add it slowly while stirring to ensure proper dispersion. Once added, stirring at a high shear rate until complete dispersion is achieved is advised. It's also suggested to reduce speed to avoid foam formation as viscosity increases. The dispersion process typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. Alternatively, an intermediate product can be developed by mixing Deuteron XG with a glycol/glycol ether or alcohol and dispersed to a high viscosity suspension for easier incorporation.

For storage, Deuteron XG should be kept in dry conditions at room temperature for up to 24 months, with a maximum storage temperature of 35°C and a relative humidity not exceeding 70%.