Cohesion analysis

Cohesion analysis allows the evaluation of interparticle adhesion forces that directly influence the flow, density, transformation or stability of powders. It is crucial for the development, packaging, manufacturing and shaping of bulk products.

Cohesion is an essential property to consider whenever a powder is stored, transported, mixed, compressed, or filled into capsules. A powder that is too cohesive can lead to blockages in silos, dosage problems, or compaction defects. Conversely, a powder that is too fluid can cause segregation problems.

Objectives of the analysis

• Characterize the flow behavior of powders
• Identify the risks of compaction, clogging or agglomeration
• Compare different batches or formulations
• Optimize mixing, compression or packaging processes
• Justify the stability of powders in dry formulation
• Improve the formulation or choice of excipients or anti-caking agents

Methodology

Depending on the nature of the sample and the objectives, several parameters are measured:

• Static cohesion (shear test): shear strength at different levels of consolidation
• Flow angle or angle of repose : visual indicator of the behavior of a loose powder
• Compressibility index / Hausner ratio : measurement of compressibility under vibration or compaction
• Dynamic cohesion (FT4 cell): simulation of flow conditions in an industrial process

Environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature or ventilation can be adjusted according to your industrial constraints.

Affected matrices

• Food powders (cocoa, proteins, supplements)
• Pharmaceutical powders or excipients
• Cosmetic powders (clays, pigments, talcs)
• Bulk ingredients (minerals, plant powders, micronutrients)
• Raw materials in dry formulation

Further analyses recommended

• Consistency analysis (penetrometry, texturometry) : measurement of the hardness or firmness of a gel or paste
• Apparent viscosity analysis : monitoring the flow resistance of pasty formulations
• Analysis of viscoelasticity : study of elastic and viscous reactions under constraints

Why go through YesWeLab?

At YesWeLab, we connect you with laboratories specializing in powder rheology, equipped with the latest technologies (FT4 Powder Rheometer, Brookfield, RST) and recognized for their rigor. The majority of our partners are ISO 17025 accredited and operate in many demanding industrial sectors.

Our team helps you choose the most relevant method according to your objectives and interpret the results for better control of your powder formulations.

Need a cohesion test tailored to your process?
Contact our scientific team now for tailored support.