Our lab offers advanced melting and setting rheology tests to evaluate how materials transition between solid-like and liquid-like states under controlled thermal conditions. These transitions are critical in determining product performance, processability, and consumer experience across industries such as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and polymers. The melting point is identified as the temperature at which a material softens and begins to flow or lose its structure, while the setting point is the temperature at which a material regains structure or solidifies upon cooling. In rheological testing, these points can be defined using specific changes in viscoelastic parameters—typically when the storage modulus (G’) drops below the loss modulus (G”) for melting, and vice versa for setting. These crossover points reflect the shift from solid-like to liquid-like behavior (and back), offering a precise and functional definition aligned with end-use performance.
Turnaround time: 3 – 10 days
Measurement Methods
Our lab employs several methods to assess melting and setting behavior, depending on the nature of the sample and the desired resolution of data:
Applications in Food Industry
In the food industry, melting and setting rheology tests play a key role in product formulation and quality control. For example, in chocolate manufacturing, melting behavior influences mouthfeel and sensory perception, while setting properties determine stability and shelf life. Dairy products like cheese and yogurt rely on controlled gelation and melting profiles to achieve desired textures. These tests also support the optimization of fat replacements, thickeners, and gelling agents used in low-fat or plant-based formulations.
Applications in Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals
In cosmetics, the thermal behavior of creams, gels, and lipsticks is closely monitored to ensure consistency during application and storage. A product must melt appropriately upon skin contact but retain its structure under ambient conditions. Similarly, in pharmaceutical formulations, melting and setting properties impact drug delivery systems such as suppositories, ointments, and gel capsules. Rheological analysis helps ensure that these materials perform predictably under physiological conditions.
Applications in Polymers and Materials Science
For the polymer and materials industry, melting and setting rheology tests are fundamental in assessing thermoplastics, waxes, adhesives, and hydrogels. These tests inform processing conditions like extrusion, molding, and curing by providing insight into viscosity changes with temperature. In 3D printing and additive manufacturing, accurate knowledge of setting behavior ensures proper layer adhesion and structural integrity.
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