Description
Agar-based ice gel forms when a 1.5–2 % agar solution is heated to 90–100 °C and cooled to 35–40 °C, creating a firm, transparent network that traps water.
Technical
The gelation mechanism involves the formation of agarose double helices that intertwine into a three‑dimensional network. Hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces stabilize the structure, allowing the gel to remain solid at sub‑freezing temperatures. The process is reversible upon reheating above the melting point (~85 °C).
Science
Primary Reaction
Gelation of agarose via double‑helix formation and network trapping of water
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
neutralslightly sweetseaweed-likecleanmineral
Origin & History
Civilization
East Asian
Era
Traditional to modern