Effect of size and shape of particulate inclusions on the rheology of guar galactomannan solutions

In our earlier work, the effects of particulate inclusions on the rheological properties of a guar galactomannan entanglement solution were studied. Filler materials varying in size and shape were investigated including a rice starch sample, chosen for its homogeneity and spherical nature. In the present paper, the work has been extended to include microcrystalline cellulose selected for its rod-like appearance and heterogeneous nature. The effects of particulate and composite properties on the apparent zero-shear viscosity and yield stress of the system were determined, and compared with previous results obtained using the more isotropic rice starch filler. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.