Laboratory experiments show that Exilva® has improved microbiological stability as compared to other bio-based rheology modifiers such as xanthan gum. A non-preserved Exilva dispersion is stable against microbial degradation and maintains its anti-settling properties over time.
In this experiment, 1 wt% suspension of Exilva MFC and 1 wt% solution of Xanthan Gum were prepared and stored at room temperature (~20 °C) for 1 month without adding preservative.
Samples were handled in a similar way, avoiding contamination during the preparation step.
To visually assess the performance of the two suspensions, synthetic microbeads were added to the top of the suspensions. In both cases, at the start of the experiment, due to the high yield stress and stabilising properties of the materials, the beads were suspended at the top of the container.
After 1 month, it was noticed that Xanthan Gum without biocide loses its suspending ability while Exilva without biocide maintains its anti-settling properties after at least 1 month.
This study demonstrates the excellent stability of Exilva. The material is non-soluble and, hence, does not easily decompose or degrade due to microorganism contamination in such a short time, as can be seen in the case of Xanthan Gum. Exilva is, therefore, an efficient and robust rheology modifier for enhanced anti-settling properties in biologicals formulations.
