| 摘要 |
A method and apparatus for the modification of the physical properties of polymers through pressure processing techniques. The appratus is comprised of a piston assembly (2) which acts on the polymer substrate charged within the confines of a compression chamber. Piston assembly (2) comprises compression chamber (1), the terminal end of which is disposed between inlet valve (3) and outlet valve (4), and piston housing (42) which has within it a movable piston (20). A reservoir (5) is provided as a receptacle for the substrate (40) and may be adapted with a stirrer and heating coils (not shown) where necessary to maintain homogeneity and flow properties. The piston delivers an abrupt pressure change to the substrate for the purpose of effecting the desired modification of physical properties including altered thermal, viscosity, solubility, turbidity and hardness profiles. Predictable characteristics may be imparted to the substrate through variation of pressure duration and intensity as well as the number of piston strokes applied. Modification of the physical properties of starch and gum arabic, in particular, is disclosed. |
