Measuring starch properties

Because the functional properties of native starch (from nature: potatoes, maize, wheat, tapioca from carrots) often do not meet the requirements to achieve a desired end product, modified starches have been developed. About 70% of the total amount of native starch is physically, chemically or enzymatically processed into a starch derivative with the desired properties. Most operations or modifications rely on heat treatment, depolymerization, substitution and crosslinking or combinations. Analytical instruments are used to obtain the desired properties for a starch derivative.

Inventech has various high-quality analysis instruments available, of which we would like to highlight one below: measuring starch properties with NIR. If you are more interested in measuring moisture in starch or starch derivatives, read on here.

Measuring important parameters of starch with NIR

A measurement with NIR is almost as versatile as the product starch. It is not for nothing that we recently organized an event in the Rijksmuseum “The many applications of NIR”. When it comes to an NIR measurement in starch, for example, the percentage of starch, phosphate and fats can be measured with NIR. These parameters determine the degree of swelling and are responsible for the gelatinization temperature. Or the content of starch ethers that are important in, among other things, the manufacture of cement-based tile adhesives. You can also use NIR if you want to quickly and precisely determine the composition of polymers for crosslinking. In cross-linking or 'cross-linking' two or more starch molecules are bound together by means of a reagent. In this way, the gelatinization temperature (at which their viscosity – i.e. viscous fluidity – increases) and maximum viscosity increase, among other things.

NIR for measuring important parameters in starch

With Near Infrared (NIR) spectrometers you are quickly able to measure and analyze a reliable and reproducible spectrum, such as the IT Photonics NIR spectrometer. In one measurement and within a few seconds, NIR spectrometers provide insight into chain length and branches, elasticity and surface hardness (crosslinking). At the same time, they can provide insight into other important parameters you wish to measure, including content of virtually any substance and even viscosity. By calibration with product properties, you are able to optimize your process and product. Incoming raw materials can also be measured quickly and quality control can easily be applied to products already manufactured.

Here you will find more information on the NIR spectrometers of IT Photonics

Would you like to know more about measuring starch properties?

Contact our specialist in spectroscopy Kees van der Sar

Contact Inventech today

Measuring starch properties with Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR)

Inventech is your specialist in measuring starch properties