Effects of y-Irradiation on Some Properties of Gum Arabic (Acacia Senegal L)

The effects of gamma radiation with variable doses on some properties of gum Arabic (Acacia Senegal) obtained from Blue Nile State, in Sudan season 2008 were investigated. Doses of 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8.5, 9.5, and 10.5 KGy were used respectively for irradiation of gum Arabic samples. The properties studied include the emulsifying stability, viscosity and absorption. It was found that the best emulsifying stability, highest relative viscosity and highest absorbance were obtained with the highest radiation dose (10.5 KGy).Absorbance increased drastically compared with the control sample (not irradiated sample). Redshift in the peak absorption wavelength was also observed. Change in the colour of irradiated samples occurred from white to red colour. It was concluded that gamma radiation is capable of enhancement of the properties of gum Arabic material.