Suitable Emulsifiers for Milky White Palm Oil O/W Emulsion
Question
What are suitable emulsifiers and methods for creating a stable, milky white oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion using palm oil?
Answer
Suitable Emulsifiers for Palm Oil in Water Emulsion
To effectively disperse palm oil in water and achieve a milky white oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion, you can use emulsifiers specifically designed for O/W systems. Based on your requirements, the following emulsifiers are suitable:
- Ceteareth-10: This is an oil-in-water emulsifier with an HLB of 12-13. Its white flake/solid form helps contribute to a milky white appearance. It is typically incorporated into the oil phase and heated.
- Beheneth-25: A non-ionic oil-in-water emulsifier that effectively combines oil and water. It comes as white flakes, aiding in achieving a white emulsion. It is added to the oil phase and heated.
- Steareth-10: This oil-in-water emulsifier also functions as a dispersant and co-emulsifier. Its white flake form is beneficial for a milky white color. It is mixed into the oil phase and heated.
- C12-15 Pareth-12: An oil-in-water non-ionic emulsifier with an HLB of approximately 14.4. It can be used for O/W emulsions. While a clear liquid, it can still help create a milky emulsion depending on the formulation.
General Emulsification Process:
To create a stable O/W emulsion with palm oil, heat the oil phase (palm oil + emulsifier) and the water phase separately to about 70-80°C. Slowly add the heated oil phase to the heated water phase while stirring continuously and vigorously until the emulsion forms and cools down. Follow the recommended usage rate for the chosen emulsifier, which varies depending on the amount of oil and the desired texture.