Welan gum

Welan gum is a high molecular weight, anionic polysaccharide produced by submerged fermentation of a pure culture of Alcaligenes species. It is primarily composed of a tetrasaccharide repeating unit containing L-rhamnose, D-glucose, D-glucuronic acid, and either L-mannose or L-galactose. The specific sugar composition and ratio can vary slightly depending on the fermentation conditions and the specific strain of Alcaligenes used.

Welan gum is characterized by its ability to form stable, highly viscous solutions at low concentrations. It is also known for its excellent thermal stability, salt tolerance, and acid resistance. These properties make it a valuable ingredient in a variety of industrial applications.

Common applications of welan gum include:

• Construction: Used as a viscosity modifier and stabilizer in cement-based materials, improving workability, reducing segregation, and enhancing durability.
• Oil and Gas: Employed as a viscosifier and suspension agent in drilling fluids and enhanced oil recovery processes.
• Food Industry: Utilized as a thickener, stabilizer, and gelling agent in various food products such as sauces, dressings, and desserts. It can provide texture and improve the shelf life of these products.
• Cosmetics and Personal Care: Incorporated as a thickener, stabilizer, and film former in lotions, creams, and other personal care formulations.
• Pharmaceuticals: Used as a suspending agent, stabilizer, and controlled-release agent in pharmaceutical formulations.

Welan gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory agencies for use in food and other applications when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. It is considered a non-toxic and biodegradable material. Its unique combination of properties makes it a versatile and valuable polysaccharide for a wide range of industries.