Dynamic rheology of structural development in starch/decolourised hsian‐tsao leaf gum composite systems

The gelling process of decolourised hsian‐tsao leaf gum (dHG)/starch mixtures was monitored as a function of starch/gum ratio and starch type using a dynamic rheometer. It was found that the gelling process followed first‐order kinetics. At starch/gum ratios of 5:1, 4:2 and 3:3, dHG interacted with starch synergistically, resulting in a marked increase in storage modulus ( G ′). Both the gelling reaction rate constant and plateau G ′ value as a function of starch/dHG ratio showed a maximum at a certain starch/gum ratio. These results indicated that a suitable starch/dHG ratio could facilitate the formation of a three‐dimensional network structure and the conversion of chains in the sol fraction into a gel. The maximum G ′ value reached depended on the unique chemistry of each starch. Mixed systems with tapioca starch generally showed lower plateau G ′ values than mixed systems with wheat or corn starch, possibly owing to the lower amylose content of tapioca starch. © 2002 Society of Chemical Industry