What does the zeta potential measure?

Zeta potential is a crucial measurement in colloidal science and wastewater treatment because it indicates the electrostatic potential in the electrical double layer surrounding a particle. Specifically, it reflects the degree of charge on a particle's surface. This charge results from ions in the solution interacting with the particle, affecting how well particles can repel each other or aggregate.

When the zeta potential is high, it suggests that there are a significant number of excess electrons on the surface of the particles, which enhances stability in suspension by causing repulsion between similarly charged particles. Conversely, a low zeta potential indicates that particles may come closer together, potentially leading to flocculation or settling.

Understanding zeta potential is vital for water treatment facilities to optimize coagulation and flocculation processes, which are critical in removing impurities from water. Therefore, the measurement of excess electrons is integral to the management of particle interactions in various water treatment scenarios.