Homogenization-lnduced Clustering of Fat Globules in Cream and Model Systems

Fat globule clustering in cream and model systems was studied. A theory attributing globule binding to sharing of surface-active molecules or particles was proposed and tested. The dependence of cluster integrity on the integrity of the shared surface-active agent was demonstrated. A formula was derived for theoretical calculation of fractional surfactant coverage of globules at the homogenization valve exit. Theorizing that scarcity of shareable surfactant relative to new interface would favor clustering, predictions were made about the clustering response to variables affecting the ratio of interfacial-area coverage to new interface. Experiments on model systems of paraffin oil, homogenized in solutions of polyvinylalcohol or glutaraldehyde-fixed isolated casein micelles, confirmed the theoretical predictions.