Double-layer interactions of unlike spheres. Part 2.—Numerical analysis of electrostatic interaction energy

Abstract

A comprehensive numerical analysis of the electrostatic interaction energy of a two-surface system has been performed. A partial attraction between two spheres differing in size and the magnitude of the same sign potential is established. As a consequence conditions which lead to either heterocoagulation or selective coagulation in a binary mixture as a function of ionic strength are identified. The analysis is applicable to the plate/sphere configuration, which allows for interpretation of particle-adhesion phenomena.