Proton transverse magnetization decay curves of rice flour starch–water samples were measured and analysed for the presence of four
components in the relaxation curve. T2 values were interpreted on the basis of the diffusive and chemical exchange model that provided
evidence for extra granular bulk water and three more water populations whose relaxation rate is governed by diffusive and chemical
exchange with starch components. The analysis of relaxation data provided information on dynamics of water molecules as well as
on the size and dispersion of diffusive domains. Furthermore, by measuring solid to liquid ratio, transverse and longitudinal relaxation
curves of starch–water mixtures at increasing temperatures – from 20 to 77 C – swelling and gelatinisation processes were monitored.
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