The Precipitation of Calcium Carbonate in the Presence of Macromolecules Isolated from Corals
Promising Nanotechnology-Based Strategies for Melanoma Treatment
An Innovative Approach for Assessing Foam Stability Based on Electrical Conductivity Measurements of Liquid Films
Surface Aggregation Adsorption of Binary Solutions Between Diiodomethane, Furfural, andN,N-Dimethylformamide
Journal Description
Colloids and Interfaces
Colloids and Interfaces is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on colloids and interfaces chemistry published bimonthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, no limits on space and color.
- High Visibility: indexed withinScopus,ESCI (Web of Science),CAPlus / SciFinder,Inspec, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 1.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor: 3.2 (2024); 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.0 (2024)
Latest Articles
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Proton Binding of Halloysite Nanotubes at Varied Ionic Strength: A Potentiometric Titration and Electrophoretic Mobility Study byBojana Katana andDuško Čakara
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(6), 79;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060079 - 27 Nov 2025
Abstract
Proton binding (i.e., charging) isotherms of halloysite nanotubes (HNT) were determined from cycled acid-base potentiometric titrations in KCl solution at constant ionic strengths (0.01, 0.10, 1.00 mol dm−3). The isotherms measured in the pH cycle from 3 to 11 and back [...] Read more.
Proton binding (i.e., charging) isotherms of halloysite nanotubes (HNT) were determined from cycled acid-base potentiometric titrations in KCl solution at constant ionic strengths (0.01, 0.10, 1.00 mol dm−3). The isotherms measured in the pH cycle from 3 to 11 and back exhibit a pronounced hysteresis with respect to the direction of pH change, which is accurately reproducible when the cycle is repeated. The hysteresis is absent if the cycled titration is performed within a narrow pH range between 5 and 9. These results align with the dissolution rates of alumina and silica, which form the two surfaces of the rolled kaolinite sheet in HNT, and clearly point to reversible partial dissolution-deposition processes in the HNT interior during a titration cycle, outside the above pH range (alumina dissolution below pH ≈ 5 and silica dissolution above pH ≈ 8.5). In the studied titration experiments, these processes produce partially dissolved surface-bound, rather than completely dissolved species (reversible surface etching). Under the applied conditions, reversible surface etching is less pronounced in the acidic part of the titration cycle. Charging isotherms recorded in the decreasing pH titrations at varied ionic strength exhibit a common intersection point very close to zero charge (point of zero charge) around pH ≈ 8.1, characteristic for an amphoteric solid surface. These isotherms were reasonably well fitted by applying the surface protonation model in the HNT interior, which invokes the Stern model of the electric double layer (EDL), by summing the surface charges calculated for alumina and silica as separate components (surfaces). The model surface charge isotherms for alumina surface in the HNT interior exhibit a point of zero charge at pH = 9.0, while the silica surface has a negative charge above pH > 8.5, which is in very good agreement with the values reported in the literature: as for these two surfaces, thus for kaolinite nanoparticles. The best-fit protonation site density for both surfaces is equal to 8.0 nm−2, while the best-fit intrinsic pKa for alumina and silica surfaces of HNT are equal to 9.0 and 8.5, respectively. The pH-dependence of electrophoretic mobility, measured by means of electrophoretic light scattering, reveals a more acidic behavior of the outermost silica surface than within the inner HNT phase, which is consistent with the literature result reported for kaolinite. The results reported herein confirm that the inner and outer surfaces of the HNT are oppositely charged below pH < 8.0 and negatively charged above that value, and importantly, they reveal new details about the protonation affinities and EDL parameters at active surfaces of HNT, important for the colloidal stability of HNT suspensions and the functionalization of HNT through the electrostatic binding of active molecules.Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueTen Years Without Nikola Kallay)
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Open AccessArticle
Thermodynamic Phase Control of Poly(TFEMA) Nucleation and Surface Deposition in Supercritical CO2–Toluene byJames R. Zelaya andGary C. Tepper
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(6), 78;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060078 - 25 Nov 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures The aim of this study was to investigate the nucleation, growth, and surface deposition of poly(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate) [poly(TFEMA)] from the one-phase, cloud point, and two-phase regions of a supercritical CO2–toluene solvent. A ternary mixture of 20 wt% toluene + 79 wt% [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to investigate the nucleation, growth, and surface deposition of poly(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate) [poly(TFEMA)] from the one-phase, cloud point, and two-phase regions of a supercritical CO2–toluene solvent. A ternary mixture of 20 wt% toluene + 79 wt% scCO2 + 1 wt% poly(TFEMA) at 40.0 °C was exposed to a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) surface for 30 min at pressures placing the solution in (i) a one-phase region (15.86 MPa), (ii) the cloud point (12.37 MPa), and (iii) a two-phase region (8.96 MPa). Using the Altunin–Gadetskii–Haar–Gallagher–Kell (AG–HGK) equation of state (EOS), the corresponding CO2 densities are 793.9, 729.2, and 477.8 kg m−3. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and particle-size analysis (sample sizesN = 852–1177) show particle-size distributions (PSDs) that are well described by the following lognormal form: the mean diameter increases monotonically with a decrease in pressure (1.767 μm → 2.605 μm → 2.863 μm), while dispersion tightens slightly near the cloud point (coefficient of variation, CV: ≈0.47 → 0.44) and then broadens strongly in the two-phase region (CV ≈ 1.02). Morphologies transition from sparse, compact islands (one-phase) to agglomerated, necked spheres (cloud point) and finally hierarchical populations containing hollow/pitted large particles (two-phase). These outcomes are consistent with a phase-state-controlled shift in nucleation pathways, as follows: from heterogeneous surface nucleation in the one-phase regime to homogeneous nucleation with agglomeration at the cloud point, and to homogeneous nucleation with coalescence and solvent capture in the two-phase regime. The results provide a mechanistic basis and practical design rules for pressure-programmable control of fluoropolymer coatings prepared from scCO2/aromatic-cosolvent systems.Full article
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Open AccessEditorial
Special Issue “Food Colloids: 3rd Edition” byEleni P. Kalogianni andJulia Maldonado-Valderrama
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(6), 77;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060077 - 24 Nov 2025
Abstract
This Special Issue features a collection of research papers following the 19th Food Colloids Conference, organized by the International Hellenic University and held on the 14–18 April 2024 in Thessaloniki, Greece [...]Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueFood Colloids: 3rd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
Enhanced Recovery of an Arsenopyrite-Type Gold Ore: Flotation Surface Chemistry and Kinetics of Blended Collector W8 with ADD byQingqing Xing,Fei Li,Pingtian Ming andZhen Wang
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(6), 76;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060076 - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the flotation performance of W8, a blended xanthate collector containing ethyl, butyl, propyl, and amyl xanthates, combined with ammonium dibutyl dithiophosphate (ADD) for treating low-grade arsenopyrite-type gold ore from Golmud, Qinghai. Real ore flotation tests demonstrated the superior efficacy of [...] Read more.
This study investigated the flotation performance of W8, a blended xanthate collector containing ethyl, butyl, propyl, and amyl xanthates, combined with ammonium dibutyl dithiophosphate (ADD) for treating low-grade arsenopyrite-type gold ore from Golmud, Qinghai. Real ore flotation tests demonstrated the superior efficacy of the W8 + ADD system, achieving 84.06% gold recovery with 0.34 g/t tailings, outperforming conventional sodium amyl xanthate (SAX) + ADD and sodium propyl xanthate (SPX) + ADD systems. Systematic studies on pure arsenopyrite revealed a significant synergistic effect in the mixed SPX-SAX system (1:4 ratio), representative of W8 composition. At pH 9, the mixed collector achieved 73.5% recovery, substantially higher than individual SPX (37.5%) or SAX (45.8%). This enhanced performance was attributed to improved surface hydrophobicity (contact angle 47.68° vs. 36.92° for SAX), greater adsorption density (4.97 × 10−7 mol/g under depressant conditions), and extensive formation of molecular aggregates observed via AFM, which increased surface roughness to 28.95 nm. Flotation kinetics further confirmed the advantage of W8 + ADD, which reached 72.1% cumulative recovery in 420 s, exceeding both mixed SPX/SAX (69.5%) and single SAX (65.5%) systems. The synergistic interaction among different xanthate components in W8 enables efficient recovery of gold from this refractory ore.Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueState of the Art of Colloid and Interface Science in Asia)
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Open AccessBook Review
Book Review: Kharazi et al.Innovations in Ionic Liquid-Based Surfactants and Interfacial Phenomena; CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL, USA, 2025; ISBN: 978-1-032-74807-8 byAbhijit Dan
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(6), 75;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060075 - 13 Nov 2025
Abstract
The book seriesProgress in Colloid and Interface Science was launched in 2009 by Libero Liggieri and Reinhard Miller [...]Full article
Open AccessArticle
Innovative Preparation of Salted Duck Egg White Lysozyme Functional Film and Its Application in Fresh Storage of Small Nectarines byXinjun Yao,Wanrong Li,Jun Guo,Fangkai Han,Muhammad Usman andLipeng Wu
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(6), 74;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060074 - 10 Nov 2025
Abstract
Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) is ideal for active packaging due to its non-toxicity and degradability, but its poor film-forming performance (strong hydrophilicity, weak mechanical properties, and low antibacterial activity) limits practical use. This study prepared a new edible antibacterial presFervation film (SDEWL-CMCS) by adding [...] Read more.
Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) is ideal for active packaging due to its non-toxicity and degradability, but its poor film-forming performance (strong hydrophilicity, weak mechanical properties, and low antibacterial activity) limits practical use. This study prepared a new edible antibacterial presFervation film (SDEWL-CMCS) by adding salted duck egg white lysozyme (SDEWL) to CMCS (as the film-forming substrate). It investigated how SDEWL concentration affects the composite film’s properties (thickness, water solubility, moisture/oil resistance, mechanical properties, and antibacterial activity) and tested the film’s preservation effect on small nectarines. The results showed the composite film had significantly improved packaging and antibacterial properties: compared to pure CMCS film, it had higher tensile strength, lower water solubility, better oil resistance and water vapor barrier performance, and stronger antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (larger inhibition zone diameters). The SDEWL-CMCS film effectively preserved small nectarines by inhibiting surface bacteria, regulating the preservation environment, and delaying fungal decay. This study confirms the film’s potential as a sustainable fruit packaging alternative, providing a theoretical basis for developing new fruit/vegetable preservation packaging and reducing the food industry’s reliance on non-degradable petroleum-based packaging.Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueFood Colloids: 4th Edition)
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Open AccessEditorial
Colloids and Interfaces: Five New Journal Sections Established byReinhard Miller
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(6), 73;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060073 - 30 Oct 2025
Abstract
The journalColloids and Interfaces is a platform dedicated to all aspects of colloids and interfaces chemistry [...]Full article
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Transport of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles in Porous Media: Characterization and Quantification of Retention Informed by Atomic Force Microscopy byHazel Cox andMark L. Brusseau
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 72;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050072 - 17 Oct 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures Manufactured nanoparticles are used in many consumer products and industries, and are known to enter our waste streams. Transport of nanoparticles in porous media has been studied extensively; however, the forces governing the interactions between nanoparticles and naturally porous media surfaces are still [...] Read more.
Manufactured nanoparticles are used in many consumer products and industries, and are known to enter our waste streams. Transport of nanoparticles in porous media has been studied extensively; however, the forces governing the interactions between nanoparticles and naturally porous media surfaces are still not fully understood. To examine the retention mechanisms and forces involved in nanoparticle transport, miscible–miscible transport experiments were performed and followed by force profile measurements by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). TiO2 nanoparticles were used as the model nanoparticle, with silica sand as the model natural porous medium. Solution chemistries were varied from pH 4.5 (favorable attachment) to 8 (unfavorable attachment), and at 0.0015–30 mM ionic strength. Detachment transport experiments were performed for the unfavorable attachment conditions to determine if secondary minima attachment was present. DLVO calculations were performed to evaluate their predictive ability for force profiles under the experimental conditions. Mass recoveries for the transport experiments ranged from 28% to 80%, indicating significant attachment. Detachment was observed, indicating the presence of secondary minima. The magnitudes of attachment measured for the transport experiments were generally consistent with the results of the AFM measurements. In addition, the detachment observed at the highest pH was also consistent with the predictions, indicating the presence of secondary minima. DLVO theory underestimated the magnitudes of the attractive and repulsive forces measured by AFM but was able to qualitatively represent behavior observed at the lower two pHs. In contrast, it provided a poor representation of behavior at the highest pH. The integrated AFM measurements and miscible–displacement experiments employed in this study have provided insight into the retention of TiO2, with implications for other nanoparticles during transport in porous media.Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Numerical Simulation of Drying Patterns of Nanofluids in an Open Square Domain byZhenlong Song,Yibo Hu andYanguang Shan
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 71;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050071 - 15 Oct 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures The drying of nanofluid films on a surface can form various patterns and plays an important role in painting, surface patterning, and nano-fabrication processes. In this paper, a two-dimensional Kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) model is developed based on the two-dimensional Ising model to [...] Read more.
The drying of nanofluid films on a surface can form various patterns and plays an important role in painting, surface patterning, and nano-fabrication processes. In this paper, a two-dimensional Kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) model is developed based on the two-dimensional Ising model to investigate the drying patterns of nanofluids in an open domain. In the KMC model, the effective chemical potential is approximated by a linear function, in contrast to the constant value used in previous studies. This ensures that the dewetting front in the open domain consistently recedes from the edges toward the center. Simulation results show that nanoparticles, initially uniformly distributed, can assemble into branched structures that remain on the substrate after complete evaporation of the nanofluid. Furthermore, the structures observed in our study differ from the fractal cavities investigated in previous studies conducted in closed domains. A parametric study reveals that both the particle diffusion rate and the chemical potential distribution significantly influence the resulting patterns.Full article
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
A SERS Substrate for Ultrafast Photosynthetic Au Nanoparticle Growth on WO3 Nanowires byShiyong Meng,Qingsong Deng,Lin Zhang,Yibo Feng,Lei Fan,Yuxin Liu,Danmin Liu andCong Wang
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 70;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050070 - 14 Oct 2025
Abstract
The practical adoption of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology is often hampered by the high cost, complex fabrication, and poor reproducibility of conventional substrates, which typically rely on noble metals or inefficient semiconductors. Herein, we address key challenges in the practical commercialization of [...] Read more.
The practical adoption of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology is often hampered by the high cost, complex fabrication, and poor reproducibility of conventional substrates, which typically rely on noble metals or inefficient semiconductors. Herein, we address key challenges in the practical commercialization of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology by reporting a facile, scalable, and environmentally benign strategy for fabricating a hybrid SERS substrate. This approach integrates Au nanoparticles (NPs) with hydrothermally synthesized WO3 nanowires through a green photoreduction process, which is rapid, organic-solvent-free, and amenable to large-scale production. The design of the Au/WO3 nanocomposite capitalizes on the synergistic effect between electromagnetic (EM) enhancement from Au NPs and chemical mechanism (CM) enhancement via charge transfer involving the WO3 semiconductor. This synergy empowers the substrate with exceptional SERS activity, enabling the sensitive detection of Rhodamine 6G (R6G) down to 10−11 M and yielding an enhancement factor (EF) of 4.09 × 106. More importantly, this EM-CM synergy proves critical for detecting molecules with weak affinity, such as the nerve agent simulant dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), achieving a significant signal enhancement of 102–103 times, which is notably challenging for conventional plasmonic substrates. Beyond sensitivity, the substrate exhibits excellent reproducibility and operational stability, which are paramount for real-world applications. This work presents a nanohybrid strategy that successfully balances scalability, stability, and sensitivity, offering a reliable and cost-effective pathway for advancing SERS technologies toward practical implementation.Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueState of the Art of Colloid and Interface Science in Asia)
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Open AccessArticle
Synthesis of Chitosan Nanocomposite Materials Grafted with MWCNTs for the Removal of Tetracycline Pharmaceutical from Water Samples byMilton Shabeng Kgoete,Conny Putsane Mokgohloa andLutendo Evelyn Macevele
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 69;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050069 - 14 Oct 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures Pharmaceutical contaminants such as tetracycline pose an increasing threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health as a result of their persistence in water sources and their contribution to antibiotic resistance. This study developed chitosan nanocomposites by incorporating functionalised and nitrogen-doped multi-walled carbon nanotubes [...] Read more.
Pharmaceutical contaminants such as tetracycline pose an increasing threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health as a result of their persistence in water sources and their contribution to antibiotic resistance. This study developed chitosan nanocomposites by incorporating functionalised and nitrogen-doped multi-walled carbon nanotubes (FMWCNTs and NMWCNTs) for the removal of tetracycline pharmaceutical contaminants from water. The composites were characterised with FTIR, SEM, XRD, BET, UV–Vis, and TGA under various conditions (pH, adsorbent dosage, concentration, contact time, and temperature). Optimal tetracycline removal (85%) was achieved with pH 6, 2 g/L adsorbent dose, 10 ppm concentration, and 30 min contact time. The FMWCNT–chitosan composite could be recycled five times with an adsorption loss of only 2%. The FMWCNT–chitosan composite showed the good adsorption efficiency of 82% in the presence of counter ions and 70% in a binary system. The adsorption process followed the Langmuir isotherm (263 mg/g), indicative of monolayer adsorption and pseudo-second-order kinetics. Among the nanocomposites prepared, the FMWCNT–chitosan composite showed the highest performance, removing more than 85% of tetracycline from water samples.Full article
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Adsorption and Dilational Viscoelasticity of Saponin at the β-Pinene/Water and Air/Water Interfaces byFeng Lin
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 68;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050068 - 11 Oct 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures Understanding adsorption and interfacial properties of surface-active agents at interfaces is crucial to the formation and stability of colloidal systems such as emulsions and foams. In this work, interfacial tension and viscoelasticity of saponin at the β-pinene/water interface were studied using drop tensiometry [...] Read more.
Understanding adsorption and interfacial properties of surface-active agents at interfaces is crucial to the formation and stability of colloidal systems such as emulsions and foams. In this work, interfacial tension and viscoelasticity of saponin at the β-pinene/water interface were studied using drop tensiometry and dilational rheology measurement. For comparison, saponin at the air/water interface was also evaluated. Both saponin and β-pinene are bio-based, eco-friendly, and abundant in plants, trees, and agricultural wastes. Results showed that dynamic interfacial tensions σ(t) of saponin adsorbed at β-pinene/water and air/water interfaces could be well described by the Ward and Tordai model, suggesting that the saponin adsorption kinetics at both interfaces are controlled by a kinetically limited mechanism. The equilibrium interfacial pressure πe data prior to critical micelle concentration (cmc) were adequately fitted by the Gibbs adsorption isotherm. At the β-pinene/water interface, a higher cmc and a larger area per molecule, but a lower πe, were observed compared to the air/water interface. Interestingly, the dilational moduli of saponin at β-pinene/water increased with increasing oscillating frequency, but with less significant frequency dependence than their counterparts at the air/water interface. The dilational moduli of saponin at β-pinene/water passed through a minimum with increasing saponin bulk concentration, while the air/water interface exhibited a strikingly different trend in terms of concentration dependence and a higher magnitude for the dilational moduli. The correlation between adsorption behaviors and dilational properties of saponin at the two interfaces is discussed. Fundamental knowledge gained from this study will be beneficial for the rational development of new biocompatible emulsions and foam products for more sustainable applications.Full article
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Surface Aggregation Adsorption of Binary Solutions Between Diiodomethane, Furfural, andN,N-Dimethylformamide byZhongwei Huang,Na Du andWanguo Hou
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 67;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050067 - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures The surface tensions (σ) of binary solutions of diiodomethane (DIM, 1)–furfural (FA, 2), DIM (1)–N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF, 2), and FA (1)–DMF (2) were determined at 25 °C over the entire bulk composition range, and the surface adsorption behavior [...] Read more.
The surface tensions (σ) of binary solutions of diiodomethane (DIM, 1)–furfural (FA, 2), DIM (1)–N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF, 2), and FA (1)–DMF (2) were determined at 25 °C over the entire bulk composition range, and the surface adsorption behavior was analyzed using the surface aggregation adsorption (SAA) model proposed recently. In particular, by combining the SAA model with the Gibbs adsorption equation, the changes in the Gibbs surface excess (Γ2) and the adsorption layer thickness (τ) with the bulk composition (x2,b) were investigated. The SAA model combined with the modified Eberhart model can well describe theσ-isotherms of the three binary solutions. The surface adsorption trends of component 2 in DIM–FA, DIM–DMF, and FA–DMF decrease in turn. The change trends of Γ2 andτ withx2,b are dependent on the SAA model parameters, namely, the adsorption equilibrium constant (Kx) and the average aggregation number (n). With an increase inx2,b, Γ2 continuously increases whenKx < 2v1/[n(2n − 1)v2] (wherev1 andv2 are the partial molar volumes of components 1 and 2, respectively); otherwise (i.e.,Kx ≥ 2v1/[n(2n − 1)v2]), Γ2 initially increases and then decreases, showing a maximum on the Γ2-isotherm. Whenn ≥ 1,τ gradually decreases with an increase inx2,b; otherwise (i.e.,n < 1),τ initially increases and then decreases, showing a maximum on theτ-isotherm. An increase in the adsorption trend leads to a decrease in both Γ2 andτ. This work provides a better understanding of the surface adsorption behavior of liquid mixtures.Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Magnetic Thixotropic Fluid for Direct-Ink-Writing 3D Printing: Rheological Study and Printing Performance byZhenkun Li,Tian Liu,Hongchao Cui,Jiahao Dong,Zijian Geng,Chengyao Deng,Shengjie Zhang,Yin Sun andHeng Zhou
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 66;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050066 - 2 Oct 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures Yield stress and thixotropy are critical rheological properties for enabling successful 3D printing of magnetic colloidal systems. However, conventional magnetic colloids, typically composed of a single dispersed phase, exhibit insufficient rheological tunability for reliable 3D printing. In this study, we developed a novel [...] Read more.
Yield stress and thixotropy are critical rheological properties for enabling successful 3D printing of magnetic colloidal systems. However, conventional magnetic colloids, typically composed of a single dispersed phase, exhibit insufficient rheological tunability for reliable 3D printing. In this study, we developed a novel magnetic colloidal system comprising a carrier liquid, magnetic nanoparticles, and organic modified bentonite. A direct-ink-writing 3D-printing platform was specifically designed and optimized for thixotropic materials, incorporating three distinct extruder head configurations. Through an in-depth rheological investigation and printing trials, quantitative analysis revealed that the printability of magnetic colloids is significantly affected by multiple factors, including magnetic field strength, pre-shear conditions, and printing speed. Furthermore, we successfully fabricated 3D architectures through the precise coordination of deposition paths and magnetic field modulation. This work offers initial support for the material’s future applications in soft robotics, in vivo therapeutic systems, and targeted drug delivery platforms.Full article
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Colloidal Properties of Clays from Ventzia Basin Enhanced with Chemical Additives and Subjected to Dynamic Thermal Aging Suitable for Water-Based Drilling Fluids byDimitriοs Papadimitriou,Ernestos-Nikolas Sarris,Andreas Georgakopoulos andNikolaos Kantiranis
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 65;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050065 - 28 Sep 2025
Abstract
This work examines the colloidal properties of clays sampled from two different locations in Ventzia basin processed as low-density solid additives for water-based drilling fluid applications. The obtained samples were mechanically processed to reach a size less than 2 cm. The material was [...] Read more.
This work examines the colloidal properties of clays sampled from two different locations in Ventzia basin processed as low-density solid additives for water-based drilling fluid applications. The obtained samples were mechanically processed to reach a size less than 2 cm. The material was then activated with 3 wt% soda ash without oven drying, keeping the moisture in environmental conditions to simulate industrial activation conditions. After laying for one month curing time, samples were oven dried at 60 °C and further ground to <120 μm. Two groups of samples were created mixing clays from Ventzia basin and additives. The first group contained clay, xanthan gum and sodium polyacrylate (PAA), while the second group contained clay, xanthan gum and sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP). Standard tests were performed for the rheological behavior and filtration properties prior to and after dynamic thermal aging. Results obtained were compared with commercial clays from Milos and Wyoming used in drilling fluid systems, after thermally deteriorating also their properties. The obtained results revealed that the enhanced clays under study maintain excellent thermal stability. Notably, the top-performing formulation met the critical American Petroleum Institute (API) benchmark for filtrate loss (<15 mL) and exhibited a robust rheological profile at temperatures up to 105 °C, demonstrating its suitability for water-based fluid (WBF) applications.Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueColloids and Interfaces in Mineral Processing)
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Open AccessArticle
Physicochemical Morphological Evaluation and Stability Assessment of Nanoemulsions Containing Nutrients for Parenteral Nutrition byPanos Papandreou,Efstathia Triantafyllopoulou,Ioannis Pispas,Sophia Havaki,Aristeidis Papagiannopoulos,Vassilis G. Gorgoulis andNatassa Pippa
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 64;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050064 - 25 Sep 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures Parenteral nutrition is an integral part of the nutritional support of critically ill neonates, infants, and children in the intensive care units (ICUs) and at home. Therefore, the adequacy and the effectiveness of parenteral nutrition, PN, support are among the major concerns of [...] Read more.
Parenteral nutrition is an integral part of the nutritional support of critically ill neonates, infants, and children in the intensive care units (ICUs) and at home. Therefore, the adequacy and the effectiveness of parenteral nutrition, PN, support are among the major concerns of doctors and pharmacists. The aim of this study is the physicochemical and stability evaluation of nanoemulsions, which are used for parenteral nutrition. These nanoemulsions are for intravenous (IV) administration of lipids, amino acids, glucose, electrolytes, trace elements as well as vitamins. Light scattering techniques are used for the identification of the hydrodynamic diameter (Dh), size polydispersity index (PDI), and the ζ-potential of the prepared nanoemulsions. Stability assessment is performed in different conditions, mimicking those of the hospital. The stability studies involve shelf-life measurement of these NEs over 10 days in two storage conditions (25 °C and 4 °C) using dynamic light scattering. According to the US Pharmacopeia, the droplet size should be under the upper limit of 500 nm (0.5 μm). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is used for the shape of the droplets of the nanoemulsion emulsion for parenteral nutrition for the first time. The results showed that the droplet size was around 300 nm, with a homogeneous population and negative ζ-potential. The morphology was vesicular and spherical, typical for NE droplet shape. The results from all the characterization techniques show that the formulations meet the high-quality standards of nanoemulsions for neonates, infants and children.Full article
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Open AccessFeature PaperReview
Two-Dimensional Materials for Selective Ion Transport Membrane: Synthesis and Application Advances byZhijian Jiang,Shining Zhang,Jianzhi Xu,Ying Liu,Yuanyuan Zhang,Jianguo Liu andZicheng Zuo
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 63;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050063 - 17 Sep 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures Membrane innovations have become a key solution for overcoming the bottlenecks in efficiency upgrade in many green energy fields. Membrane performance depends on two key parameters permeability and selectivity, which typically follow a trade-off relationship: improving one often diminishes the other. Two-dimensional (2D) [...] Read more.
Membrane innovations have become a key solution for overcoming the bottlenecks in efficiency upgrade in many green energy fields. Membrane performance depends on two key parameters permeability and selectivity, which typically follow a trade-off relationship: improving one often diminishes the other. Two-dimensional (2D) materials, which have atomic-level thickness, tunable pore sizes, and reasonable functionalization, offer great promises to break through the trade-off effect and redesign high-efficiency mass transfer pathways. This review systematically presents recent efforts in both preparation and potential applications of 2D materials for overcoming the permeability–selectivity trade-off. It highlights four prevailing fabrication strategies: chemical vapor deposition, interfacial synthesis, solution-phase synthesis, and exfoliation, and shows some major optimization techniques for various 2D materials. Additionally, this review discusses emerging applications of 2D materials across critical fields from water treatment (seawater desalination, metal ion extraction) to energy technologies (osmotic power generation, direct methanol fuel cells, and vanadium redox flow batteries). Finally, the challenges and future prospects of 2D materials in ion separation and energy conversion are discussed.Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Synthesis of Quaternary Ammonium Gemini Levelers and Their Action Mechanisms in Microvias Void-Free Copper Filling byTao Song,Jun-Yi Wang,Jiang-Peng Qiu,Jia-Qiang Yang,Zhao-Yun Wang,Yi Zhao,Xiao-Hui Yang,Ren Hu,Jun Cheng,Fang-Zu Yang,Lian-Huan Han andDong-Ping Zhan
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 62;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050062 - 15 Sep 2025
Abstract
►▼ Show Figures Developing a highly efficient leveler in acid copper electroplating solution is one of the primary tasks necessary for achieving superconformal filling of microvias and interconnections in printed circuit boards (PCBs). Two triethylenediamine-based Gemini levelers, both with terminal quaternary ammonium groups, are synthesized and [...] Read more.
Developing a highly efficient leveler in acid copper electroplating solution is one of the primary tasks necessary for achieving superconformal filling of microvias and interconnections in printed circuit boards (PCBs). Two triethylenediamine-based Gemini levelers, both with terminal quaternary ammonium groups, are synthesized and named as GL1 (C8) after reaction of triethylenediamine with 1,8-dichlorooctane and GL2 (C6 with two C–O linkages) after triethylenediamine with 1,2-bis(2-chloroethoxy) ethane. Electrochemical experiments indicate that at 100 rpm and 1000 rpm GL2 combines with a suppressor and accelerator to exhibit greater potential difference of 23 mV than GL1 in 9 mV for Cu2+ reduction, demonstrating that GL2 has a stronger synergistic convection-dependent adsorption (CDA) effect. Microvias copper electroplating experiments confirm that acid copper electroplating solution containing GL2 achieve more effective superconformal void-free filling as it results in FP = 96.1%, while the solution containing GL1 results in FP = 70%. Theoretical calculations indicate that adsorption energy of GL2 is −1037.54 kJ·mol−1, which is lower than GL1 (−1019.06 kJ·mol−1). GL2 displays lower electron density compared to GL1, which facilitates its displacement by accelerator at the bottom. The lower adsorption energy of GL2 suggests the weaker adsorption ability and the stronger CDA behavior.Full article
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Open AccessReview
Recent Developments and Applications of Food-Based Emulsifiers from Plant and Animal Sources byYuqiao Jin andAchyut Adhikari
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 61;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050061 - 10 Sep 2025
Abstract
Food-based emulsifiers, derived from natural or edible sources such as soybeans, oats, eggs, milk, and fruits, have gained increasing attention in the food industry due to their clean label appeal, recognition as natural ingredients, and alignment with consumer demand for fewer synthetic additives. [...] Read more.
Food-based emulsifiers, derived from natural or edible sources such as soybeans, oats, eggs, milk, and fruits, have gained increasing attention in the food industry due to their clean label appeal, recognition as natural ingredients, and alignment with consumer demand for fewer synthetic additives. These emulsifiers are also valued for their biodegradability, environmental sustainability, and potential nutritional benefits. The food-based compounds have been extensively studied for their functional and physicochemical properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments and applications of food-based emulsifiers, with a focus on protein-based, polysaccharide-based, and phospholipid-based emulsifying agents derived from plant and animal sources. The mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages of the food-based emulsifiers are discussed. Plant-based emulsifiers offer sustainability, wide availability, and cost-efficiency, positioning them as a promising area for research. Combinations of food-based emulsifiers such as polysaccharides, proteins, and phospholipids can be utilized to enhance emulsion stability. This paper evaluates current literature and discusses future challenges and trends in the development of food-based emulsifiers.Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueRecent Advances on Emulsions and Applications: 3rd Edition)
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Open AccessCommunication
Leaving Glauber’s Salt Island: The Road to Stabilisation byPoppy O’Neill,Anastasia Stamatiou andLudger Fischer
Colloids Interfaces2025,9(5), 60;https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050060 - 9 Sep 2025
Abstract
Glauber’s salt is a promising phase change material for thermal energy storage due to its high latent heat capacity of 234 J/g and melting point of 34 °C, making it well-suited for low-temperature heating applications. However, its practical use has been limited by [...] Read more.
Glauber’s salt is a promising phase change material for thermal energy storage due to its high latent heat capacity of 234 J/g and melting point of 34 °C, making it well-suited for low-temperature heating applications. However, its practical use has been limited by phase separation and associated loss of performance during repeated thermal cycling. This study aimed to address this limitation through a novel stabilisation approach. The material was encapsulated within an emulsion matrix designed to physically constrain the salt and inhibit separation during melting and to form a phase change dispersion. The phase change dispersion was subjected to 100 controlled heating–cooling cycles whilst monitoring the latent heat capacity and phase transition plateaus. The phase change dispersion retained its thermal properties throughout testing, showing no measurable degradation in storage capacity nor shift in phase transition temperature. These results demonstrate that this encapsulation mechanism can effectively maintain the functional performance of Glauber’s salt under repeated thermal cycling. This approach may form the basis for more durable salt hydrate-based storage media and has potential relevance for applications in building heating, waste heat recovery and renewable energy integration. By improving stability, this method helps unlock the long-term operational viability of phase change materials.Full article
(This article belongs to the Special IssueRecent Advances on Emulsions and Applications: 3rd Edition)
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Topic inApplied Nano,Coatings,Colloids and Interfaces,Materials,Surfaces,Nanomaterials,Laboratories
New Research on Thin Films and NanostructuresTopic Editors: Paolo Mele, Cristiano Giordani, Marco FronziDeadline: 30 June 2026
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