Description
Emulsion stability depends on the integrity of interfacial films formed by amphiphilic molecules, which can be disrupted by shear, temperature, ionic strength, and pH changes.
Technical
Amphiphilic surfactants such as lecithin adsorb at the oil–water interface, lowering interfacial tension and creating a viscoelastic film that resists droplet coalescence. High shear reduces droplet size, increasing kinetic stability, while elevated temperatures accelerate phospholipid hydrolysis, weakening the film. Electrolytes screen electrostatic repulsion, promoting flocculation, and extreme pH alters emulsifier ionization, leading to film rupture.
Science
Primary Reaction
Interfacial film formation and hydrolysis of phospholipids
Sensory Profile
Origin & History
Civilization
French and Mediterranean
Era
historical
Region
Europe