Excessive Foaming in Clear Gel Formulation

Excessive foaming in clear gels, especially when using thickeners like Xanthan Gum and Acrylate Crosspolymer (Pro Polymer), is often caused by incorporating too much air during the mixing process.

Here are some ways to reduce foaming:

• Reduce Mixing Speed: Mix at the lowest speed necessary to achieve homogeneity. High speeds whip air into the gel.
• Mix Gently: Avoid creating a vortex or splashing. Keep the mixing blade submerged and mix smoothly.
• Allow De-aeration Time: After mixing, let the gel stand undisturbed for several hours or overnight. The trapped air bubbles will often rise to the surface and dissipate.
• Add Ingredients Carefully: If adding powders, sprinkle them slowly onto the surface of the liquid while mixing gently, rather than dumping them in.
• Check Other Ingredients: Ensure other ingredients in your formulation or residues in your equipment are not contributing to foaming (e.g., residual surfactants).

By adjusting your mixing technique and allowing time for de-aeration, you should be able to significantly reduce the amount of foam in your clear gel.