Aem Lect12

DLVO theory describes the interaction between colloidal particles in solution. It accounts for both an electrostatic repulsion due to the electric double layer and an attraction due to van der Waals forces. For flocculation to occur, particles must have sufficient kinetic energy to overcome the energy barrier created by electrostatic repulsion. Steric stabilization can also prevent flocculation by preventing particles from coming close enough for attractive forces to act. The Hamaker constant quantifies van der Waals attraction and depends on properties of the interacting materials and intervening medium.