Polymers and Foam Stabilization

In summary, it can be stated that the foam abriity a given surfactant imparts depends on die surfactants effectiveness in reducing surface tension, its diffusion 

The presence of polymers in some systems can cause difficult problems where foam stability is not desirable. Such is particularly the case in waste treatment facihties, where the presence of proteins can cause extreme problems. If polyvalent ions such as Ca and are present, the problem is exacerbated still more. Proteins will bond strongly with such ions and form an essentially cross-finked surface film so rigid that it may approach the strength of a solid foam. Obviously, such a situation will be detrimental to the overall treatment process. In other situations, such as breads and other baked products, the formation of rigid foam walls can be particularly advantageous. 

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