Shear & Extensional Rheology of Xanthan Gum Solutions

Xanthan gum is a charged, semi-rigid polysaccharide that plays a key role in controlling flow behavior and texture in complex formulations. While its shear flow properties are well established, its response to extensional deformation remains less explored. In this study, we investigate how concentration and molecular interactions influence the flow behavior of xanthan gum under both shear and extensional conditions. Shear tests characterize the rate-dependent viscosity, while filament-thinning experiments capture how the material deforms and stretches under uniaxial flow. Together, these measurements provide a broader understanding of how molecular structure and flow type govern the deformation behavior of xanthan gum solutions.