Isoelectric precipitation of soy protein: I. Factors affecting particle size distribution

Abstract
The particle size distribution (PSD) of soyabean protein aggregates obtained by acid precipitation in a continuous stirred reactor was measured with a Coulter Counter model TA II. Effects of changes in the operating variables pH, concentration, mean residence time, power input, and ionic strength were investigated. Power input affects both growth and breakup while pH and ionic strength seem to exert their influence through solubility and aggregate strength. Changes in ζ-potential can explain most of these observations.