Texture measurement is a critical aspect of quality control and product development in various industries, particularly in food, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. Texture analysis involves quantifying the physical properties of a material by applying forces and measuring the resulting deformation. Here's a step-by-step explanation of how tests are chosen, data is gathered and then curves are analysed for texture/physical property measurement.
1. Setting up the Texture Analyser:
- Select a suitable probe/fixture - Choose appropriate probes (e.g., compression plates, needles, blades) and fixtures based on the type of test (compression, tension, shearing).
- Calibration: Calibrate the instrument to ensure accurate force and distance measurements. This involves using standard weights and known distances.
- Test type and parameter settings: Choose the test from a list of library test options and set the test parameters, including the test speed, distance, and force limits. For example, a simple compression test may involve applying a force at a constant speed until a specific deformation is reached using a Return to Start test
A Return to Start test is the most common ‘basic start’ test. Then choose test parameters in the T.A. Settings window and click OK to transfer to the Texture Analyser.
2. Sample preparation – Samples should be prepared consistently to avoid variability in results. This includes controlling the size, shape, and condition of the samples. Maintain consistent environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) during testing to ensure accurate and repeatable results.
3. Performing the test/collecting data – For a typical test the Texture Analyser collects force, distance, and time data as the probe interacts with the sample. This data is typically displayed as a force vs. distance (or time) curve on a graph but other axes display combinations are available for different requirements.
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| Force vs. Distance graph of an agar gel penetration test |
4. Data analysis - Understanding the force-distance/time curve – common parameters
- Peak force: The maximum force applied before the sample deforms or breaks. This indicates the sample's strength. This peak force parameter’s name is usually determined by the industry and product being tested. In the case of gels (shown above) the peak force denoted rupture strength of the gel.
- Fracture point: The point at which the sample breaks or fails. Again, this point can have different parameter names depending upon the industry and sample being tested. In the case of gels this point usually indicates the elasticity or brittleness (for short distances to break).
- Slope of the curve: Indicates the stiffness or hardness of the sample. A steeper slope means a stiffer sample.
- Area under the curve: Represents the work done on the sample, providing insights into its toughness.
5. The naming of texture/physical properties
The name of the texture parameter or physical property changes depending upon the industry and sample being tested.
- Hardness: Measured as the peak force during the first compression cycle. Hardness is on the same scale as firmness and softness and is a common term when testing materials, confectionery or pharmaceutical products, whilst renamed as firmness when testing such products as fruit and vegetables and softness when related to bakery product properties.
- Cohesiveness: The extent to which a material can withstand a second deformation relative to the first deformation.
- Adhesiveness: The work required to overcome the attractive forces between the sample surface and the probe.
- Elasticity: The ability of the sample to return to its original shape after deformation.
6. Comparing data
Data can be viewed in a results spreadsheet for further manipulation (i.e the application of formulae to create personalised parameters) or statistical analysis (to see repeatability within and between batches and to determine the consistency and reliability of the measurements). You will also be interested in:
- Comparison with standards: Compare the results with industry standards or previously obtained data to assess the quality of the sample.
- Quality control: Use the analysis results to make decisions about product quality and consistency. Pass-fail criteria can be added to your spreadsheets to make outlying data immediately jump out in a different colour.
- Product development: Apply insights from texture analysis to improve product formulations and processing techniques.
7. Data archiving
- Data export: The collected data can be exported to specialised software for detailed analysis e.g. Excel.
- Review of trends – By archiving your data and later retrieving it to compare with new data using Trendviewer you are able to review whether there are trends in your data over time or between batches.
Texture measurement is a systematic process involving careful sample preparation, precise data collection, and detailed data analysis. By understanding your data using Exponent software, one can quantify various texture properties that are critical for quality control and product development.
Why not request a Quick test setup guide poster for placement near your instrument to inform users:
There is a Texture Analysis test for virtually any physical property. Contact Stable Micro Systems today to learn more about our full range of solutions.
For more information on how to measure texture, please visit the Texture Analysis Properties section on our website.
The TA.XTplusC Texture Analyser is part of a family of texture analysis instruments and equipment from Stable Micro Systems. An extensive portfolio of specialist attachments is available to measure and analyse the textural properties of a huge range of food products. Our technical experts can also custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.
No-one understands texture analysis like we do!
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