Deutsch: Gummi / Español: Goma / Português: Goma / Français: Gomme / Italiano: Gomma
In the industrial or industry context, gum refers to a broad category of substances that are viscous, sticky, and often elastic. These materials are derived either naturally from plant exudates or synthetically produced to mimic natural gum properties. Industrially, gums are used for their binding, thickening, and stabilizing properties in various products ranging from food to pharmaceuticals and adhesives.
Description
Gums in industry are categorized mainly into two types: natural and synthetic. Natural gums, such as gum arabic, guar gum, and xanthan gum, are extracted from plants or trees. They are used extensively due to their biodegradability and non-toxic nature. Synthetic gums, like polyvinyl acetate (used in adhesives) and gum base (used in chewing gum), are created through chemical processes and are valued for their consistent quality and performance.
Application Areas
- Food Industry: Gums are used as thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers in products like ice cream, sauces, and baked goods to improve texture and shelf life.
- Pharmaceuticals: In the pharmaceutical industry, gums are utilized as binders in tablets, as well as thickeners in syrups and suspensions.
- Cosmetics: Used for their thickening properties in products like lotions and creams.
- Adhesives: Gums serve as a primary component in the formulation of adhesives, providing the necessary stickiness and flexibility for both industrial and consumer use.
Well-Known Examples
Gum arabic, harvested from acacia trees, is highly valued in both the food and pharmaceutical industries for its excellent solubility and non-toxic nature. Xanthan gum, a fermentation-derived product, is widely used in gluten-free baking and as a thickening agent in various food products.
Treatment and Risks
While natural gums are generally safe and environmentally friendly, they can vary in quality depending on their source and method of processing. Synthetic gums, although consistent in quality, can involve toxic substances in their production processes, posing environmental and health risks if not managed properly. Both types require careful quality control to ensure they meet industry standards and regulations.
Similar Terms
Related substances include resins and rubbers, which, like gums, are used for their adhesive and elastic properties but are typically more rigid or durable under certain conditions.
Weblinks
- industrie-lexikon.de: 'Gummi' in the industrie-lexikon.de (German)
- umweltdatenbank.de: 'Gummi' im Lexikon der umweltdatenbank.de (German)
Summary
In the industrial context, gum plays a critical role due to its versatile properties that are applicable in multiple fields, from food to pharmaceuticals and beyond. The choice between natural and synthetic gums typically depends on the specific application requirements, economic factors, and environmental considerations.
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