Abstract:
The general relations governing the formation of gel-like systems in electrolyte solutions have been formulated for particles of different size and shape. Comparison of the results of numerous experimental studies with data derived by theoretical analysis confirms the decisive role of long-range forces in the formation of periodic colloid structures and the extensive occurrence of these structures in nature and in technology. Peptisation, thixotropic processes, and syneresis as well as the phenomenon of reversibility in the formation of periodic colloid structures are examined and methods for estimating the interaction forces between dispersed particles are discussed on the basis of the rheological properties of periodic colloid structures. The bibliography includes 343 references.