Evaluating the Impact of Ethyl Cellulose on the Structural and Functional Properties of Wax- Based Oleogels

Oleogels have garnered attention as practical alternatives to conventional fats; however, many oleogelator systems exhibit limited mechanical capabilities to replicate their expected functionality. This study investigates the influence of ethyl cellulose (EC45) as a secondary oleogelator in wax-based oleogels, focusing on their mechanical and rheological properties. Three natural waxes were evaluated: candelilla (CLW), sunflower (SFW), and beeswax (BW). Multi-component oleogels were prepared with either 3% or 7% wax and varying concentrations of ethyl cellulose (0-8%). EC's critical gelling concentration (CGC) was determined to be 6%. The addition of EC45 increased the hardness of wax-based oleogels with polymer concentration increment. Interestingly, for CLW oleogels, the increase in hardness was observed both above and below the CGC of EC, suggesting a potential cooperative interaction between EC and both CLW. Brittleness values for most wax-based oleogels remained low with the addition of EC, with the exception of CLW-based oleogels, where the combined system displayed a higher brittleness. Furthermore, rheological analysis showed that EC increased the flow point of wax-based oleogels. These findings highlight the ability of EC to tailor the mechanical and rheological properties of wax-based oleogels, offering a promising approach to tailor oleogel characteristics better to emulate commercial fats. Currently, these multi-component gelator systems' nonlinear rheological behavior is being evaluated.