How is Gum ghatti is used to prepare wax emulsions, particularly in acid-stable wax emulsions?

Here’s a summary of the process:

1. Preparation of Acid-Stable Wax Emulsion with Gum Ghatti:

   – The formulation includes wax (47%), sodium lignosulfonate (2%), gum ghatti (1%), and water (50%).

   – Other ingredients like preservatives or soluble polyvalent metal salts may be added for enhanced stability.

2. Role of Gum Ghatti:

   – Gum ghatti is dissolved in the water phase, ensuring complete hydration. 

   – The water, with the dissolved gum ghatti and other components, is heated to a temperature depending on the melting point of the wax.

   – The molten wax is then slowly added to this water phase with efficient agitation to disperse the wax.

3. Homogenization and Stability:

   – After obtaining a good premix, the hot wax/water mix is homogenized at high pressure (3000-5000 psi). This process is done one or two times, depending on the desired particle size range.

   – The emulsion is quickly cooled after homogenization to “set” the wax particles, aiming for a size below three micrometres, preferably below two micrometres, for good mechanical stability and effective fibre coatings.

4. Application:

   – This emulsion, with gum ghatti as a component, is particularly useful for applications requiring acid stability. It helps produce a wax emulsion with small, uniform particle size, good mechanical stability, and long-term shelf life. It also imparts hydrophobic properties to the wax, helping it repel water. 

   – Such wax emulsions are applicable in various industries, including paper manufacturing, where they provide properties like water repellency and improved flexibility. 

In summary, gum ghatti in wax emulsion serves as a crucial ingredient in ensuring the stability and efficiency of acid-stable wax emulsions, contributing to the optimal performance of the emulsion in its various applications.