Using Gellan Gum (Low Acyl) and Sodium Chloride for Jelly to Mist Formulations

Yes, Gellan Gum (Low Acyl) is a suitable raw material for creating a "Jelly to Mist" (sprayable gel) formulation.

Here is how it works and some key considerations:

1. The Role of Sodium Chloride

Gellan Gum requires ions (electrolytes) to form a gel structure. Sodium Chloride (High Purity, 99.9%) provides sodium ions that trigger the gelation process. When added in the correct proportion, it helps the Gellan Gum transition from a liquid to a gel.

2. Creating the "Jelly to Mist" Texture

To achieve a texture that is a jelly in the bottle but can be sprayed as a fine mist, you need to control the concentration:

• Low Concentration: Typically, a very low usage rate of Gellan Gum (often 0.1% or less) is used for sprayable gels.
• Shear-Thinning Property: Gellan Gum has excellent shear-thinning properties, meaning the gel structure breaks down under the pressure of the spray pump, allowing it to be misted, and then reforms slightly on the skin.

3. Important Preparation Steps

• DI Water is Mandatory: You must use deionized (DI) water. If the water contains existing minerals (like tap water), the Gellan Gum may clump or gel prematurely before it is fully dissolved.
• Heat to Dissolve: Gellan Gum (Low Acyl) must be heated to above 70°C to dissolve completely in water before adding the salt (electrolyte).
• Order of Addition: Dissolve the gum in hot water first, then add the Sodium Chloride to trigger the thickening/gelation.

Recommended Products:

• Gellan Gum (Low Acyl): For a clear, firm gel structure that can be formulated into a sprayable mist.
• Sodium Chloride (High Purity, 99.9%): Used as the electrolyte to activate the gelation.