Real-time X-ray powder diffraction investigations on cocoa butter. I. temperature-dependent crystallization behavior.

The crystallization behavior of cocoa butter has been investigated by means of real-time X-ray powder diffraction. Two procedures have been followed: cooling from 60°C at a constant rate until maximum solidification has taken place; and cooling from 60°C in 2 min to a constant solidification temperature. It appears that all polymorphic forms of cocoa butter, with the exception of the β form, can be formed from liquid. The solidification temperature appears to be the most important crystallization parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]