Gums, Industrial

Abstract

Gums are polymers that can form highly viscous dispersions or gels in solvents or swelling agents. The term “industrial gums” usually refers to polysaccharides and their derivatives. This article overviews the structure, source, preparation, classification, and properties of industrial gums, including algin, carboxymethylcellulose, carrageenan, furcellaran, guar, gum arabic, starch and starch derivatives, hydroxyethylcellulose, and xanthan. Particular focus is put on water‐soluble polymers as well as on the toxicity and biocompatibility of natural and derived gums. For each class of industrial gums, rheological properties and representative industrial applications are also discussed.