Rheology of Okenia hypogaea Starch Dispersions in Aqueous Solution of DMSO

The aim of this work was to study the rheological behavior of Okenia hypogea starch dispersions (OSD) in aqueous solution (90/10, v/v) of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Okenia starch dispersions with 3 and 7 % (w/v) total solids were prepared at 20 °C and rheological tests were undertaken at 20, 40 and 60 °C, using a shear rate controlled rotational viscometer. The data fitted better the power law than the Casson model. Flow curves and flow behavior index indicated shear‐thinning behavior. All rheological parameters were affected by the solids concentration and the measurement temperature. As regards amylose and amylopectin content okenia starch is grouped among “ordinary” (non‐waxy) starches. Overall, OSD behaved similarly to potato starch dispersions and corn starch dispersions used as controls.