How does bulk size impact the stability of a product during transit?

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Bulk size significantly impacts the stability of emulsions during transit, with larger volumes more prone to separation due to stronger forces and stress. The ratio of surface area to volume is higher in smaller packages, which may contribute to their stability by reducing the effects of thermal gradients and external forces. Additionally, the type of container plays a crucial role; those that transmit vibrations can exacerbate separation issues. Shaking during transit can lead to destabilization, particularly in larger bulk sizes, as they may not disperse effectively. Overall, cushioning and vibration isolation methods may be necessary to maintain emulsion stability in larger containers.
Makeup Chemist
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I have 2 bulks of emulsion (lotion, cream, yoghurt, sauce): 1kg and 0.030g. While in transit (plane and truck) the bigger bulk separated (oil pooled on top) and the smaller one stayed as is, with no changes to the appearance of the product.

In general, larger volumes of emulsion are more prone to instability and I understand the reason, but need some help in explaining it for a report. Something like stronger forces applied to the larger bulk and caused more stress, thus led to more strain?

Or do you think that in smaller volumes, the ratio of surface area to volume is higher?
Overall, what good engineering/physics explanation can anyone suggest here?

Thanks!
 
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Temperature/thermal effects are usually(?) the culprits in "breaking" emulsions; smaller packages may be better insulated/more fluffily packed; less room to establish gradients. YMMV
 
Thank you, I can definitely add that aspect and elaborate more as I am familiar with it.
But I would like to know more about the impact of the shaking during transit as that part is more unfamiliar to me.
 
A lot may depend on the type of container: If it transfers vibration, especially resonant vibration, to contents, the frequency etc may induce separation / segregation rather than better dispersal...

Cue the old story of why eg Cornflakes and Muesli settle out faster in larger, 'Family Sized' packs...

You may need to cushion afflicted IBC with compliant mat / vibration isolators. IIRC, there are 'vanes' which may be fitted as internal dampers. Sorry, not my scene...
 

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