fosfaattitärkkelys

Fosfaattitärkkelys, known in English as phosphate starch, is a modified starch derivative. It is produced by chemically modifying native starch, typically corn starch or potato starch, with a phosphate group. This process alters the starch's physical and chemical properties, making it suitable for a wider range of industrial applications than its unmodified counterpart.

The modification process involves reacting the starch with a phosphorylating agent, such as sodium tripolyphosphate. This introduces phosphate ester linkages into the starch molecule. The degree of substitution, meaning the number of phosphate groups attached per glucose unit, can be controlled to achieve desired characteristics.

Phosphate starches exhibit enhanced water-binding capacity, improved stability under acidic and alkaline conditions, and greater resistance to shear. These properties make them valuable as thickeners, stabilizers, emulsifiers, and binders in various industries. They are commonly used in food products, paper manufacturing, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. In food, they can improve texture, prevent syneresis, and enhance freeze-thaw stability in products like sauces, yogurts, and processed meats. In paper production, they act as sizing agents and improve paper strength.