What Does
Colloid Mean?
A colloid is one of the major kinds of mixtures, the other two being suspensions and solutions. The particles of a colloid range from 1 to 100 nanometers in diameter. These particles are known for sustaining their distribution throughout a solution.
Colloids should remain in a stabilized state to prevent the formation of flocs through the process of flocculation, which produces brown stains that are damaging in nature.
Corrosionpedia Explains Colloid
In order to prevent the negative effects of an unstable colloidal system, industries should ensure that all suspended particles are in equilibrium. Some factors that could affect stability include sedimentation and aggregation, which can lessen the surface energy.
Other measures that could help achieve stabilization include mutual repulsion of the involved electrical charges. Generally, various phases possess unique charge affinities in order for electrical layers to appear at the surface. Smaller particles result in very large surface areas, and this is greatly amplified in colloids.
Moreover, colloidal stabilization can be achieved by coating the particles with materials like polymers, which can help avoid contact of particles that are within the attractive forces range. Another is the application of an electrostatic barrier that hinders particles’ aggregation. The addition of substances like polymer flocculants should also be prevented, as these could bring together colloidal particles through electrostatic interaction.
Industries should implement strict monitoring of colloid dispersion conditions through techniques such as vertical scanning and multiple light scanning.