Measuring Zeta Potential, Methods

Synonyms

EDL potential; Surface potential

Definition

Zeta potential is defined as the electric double layer (EDL) potential located at the shear plane between the Stern layer and the diffuse layer of the EDL that is formed in the neighborhood of a charged solid–liquid interface. Zeta potential is an experimentally measurable electrical potential that characterizes the strength and polarity of the EDL of the charged solid–liquid interface. Depending on the solid surface and the solution, zeta potentials values are within a range of $\mathrm{-100}$ $\mathrm{mV}$ to $\mathrm{+100}$ $\mathrm{mV}$ for most solid–liquid interfaces in aqueous solutions.

Overview

Electric Double Layer and Zeta Potential

The necessary condition for development of zeta potential is the presence of electrostatic charges at solid–liquid interface. The charging mechanisms of the solid–liquid interface are complex, possibly including the asymmetric dipoles of water molecules residing at the...