Practice-related zeta potential measurement using different measurement techniques

The importance of particle systems with particles sizes in the submicron range is steadily growing. Therefore the need for a comprehensive characterisation of these material systems is also increasing. In addition to the particle size, in dispersions the formation of a surface potential and the ensuing inclination of the particle to agglomerate is of particular interest. The zeta potential has long been used as a measurement value. The complexity of this value and the sensitive reaction of the sorption equilibria which cause the potential formation require great care in performing the measurements. In this paper the comparability of measured results gained by different measurement methods will be discussed. This will be done exemplarily with influencing factors such as sample preparation, standing time of the sample, electrolyte background, titration regime, solid concentration and measurement technique. In conclusion, some advice is given for the selection of suitable measurement parameters.