Foundations of Colloid Science

Colloid science is the study of systems involving small particles of one substance suspended in another. The particles and the suspension medium can be solid, liquid or gaseous, but this book is mainly concerned with suspension in liquids. Such systems are the basic ingredients of paints, ceramics, cosmetics, agricultural sprays, detergents, soils, many food preparations, biological cells and many other systems of scientific and technological importance. The book lays down the fundamental physical and chemical concepts on which our understanding of such systems depends. The text is designed as the basis of a one-year course at graduate or senior undergraduate level in colloid science. Volume 1 is self-contained, and no prior knowledge, except standard degree-level physical chemistry, is assumed. Many exercises are used, and full development of necessary theory is given. There are frequent references to the many applications of colloid science, making this book particularly interesting for those with practical intention in research and industry, as well as current practitioners.