Definitions for "Thixotropy"
Physical Properties and Testing Decrease of apparent viscosity under shear stress, followed by a gradual recovery when the stress is removed (e.g. a thick, non-pourable paste that becomes more spreadable after being stirred).
Believed to be the explanation for bleeding religious statues when certain gels in it's properties liquefy following vibrations, shaking or some mechanical disturbance. The gels then solidify again when left undisturbed.
The property of a liquid or plastic material which allows a (reversible) breakdown in viscosity as material is agitated over a period of time.