Viscosity increasing agents, also known as thickeners, are substances that increase the viscosity of a liquid or mixture. Examples include several types of sugars and sugar alcohols.
Here are some specific examples:
- Liquid Sorbitol: A sugar alcohol often used as a humectant and thickener.
- Liquid Maltitol: Another sugar alcohol with similar properties to sorbitol.
- Sucrose: Common table sugar, which can increase viscosity at higher concentrations.
- Fructose: A monosaccharide found in fruits and honey, also contributing to viscosity.
- Dextrose: Also known as glucose, a simple sugar that thickens solutions.
- Maltodextrin: A polysaccharide derived from starch, used for its thickening and binding properties.
- Polydextrose: A soluble fiber and bulking agent that can also increase viscosity.
These agents work by interacting with the liquid medium, increasing internal friction and thus viscosity. In sheared conditions, these interactions create a drag, manifesting as an increase in viscosity.
