AGGLOMERATION

Agglomeration is the method of bringing smaller particles together to form a larger mass. This process prevents the entire compounds of particles from dissolving by solidifying a strong center. For example, if someone were to place a mass of powdery substance within a cup of liquid, then the outer part of the substance will slowly begin to dissolve down the water, however, the entire compound will remain intact. Thus, the wet molecules will be prevented from entering the dry center part of the mass of powder.

The agglomeration process becomes involved in this situation by gluing these particles together with bridges that allow water to flow in between these particles. By doing this the compound is even further solidified and equipped to maximize the surface area in which the water can reach. Other than water, these bridges can consist of modifiers such as starches, hydrocolloids, and gum.