The Department of Food Science and Technology (FST) at the College of Science, KNUST, Kumasi, has acquired a state-of-the-art rheometer to enhance research, training and commercial analysis in food science and related fields.

The new equipment, a Modular Compact Rheometer (MCR 92), will strengthen the Department’s capacity to analyse the flow behaviour and deformation of materials, including foods, biopolymers and non-food products.

Rheology, the study of flow behaviour, plays a critical role in understanding the texture, stability and processing behaviour of many materials used in research and industry.

A rheometer is used to measure key properties such as viscosity, elasticity and viscoelasticity in fluids, semi-solids and solids. These measurements are essential for product development, quality control and process optimisation in the food, pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries.

According to the Head of Department, Prof. Jacob Kwaku Agbenorhevi, the acquisition forms part of efforts to improve hands-on training and research output within the Department.

Beyond academic research, the facility will also provide commercial and research sample analysis services to industry players, institutions and individuals. The equipment will further support short courses in applied rheology, aimed at building practical skills for professionals, researchers and students.

The rheometer will be accessible to a wide range of stakeholders, including scientists, engineers, researchers and students, as well as interested institutions and industries.

The Department of Food Science and Technology is encouraging interested researchers, institutions and industry partners to take advantage of the new facility for collaborative research and analytical services, as it continues to expand its contribution to scientific research, innovation and industry support in Ghana.

Story by: Edith Asravor  Photo: Samuel Bioh