An interfacial equilibria model for the electrokinetic properties of a fat emulsion

Abstract

A semi-empirical model is developed that may be used to describe the zeta potential behaviour of fat emulsions in complex electrolyte systems. The model encompasses specific adsorption at the interface, ionic strength effects according to the Guoy-Chapman theory and chemical speciation analysis of the bulk electrolyte using competitive thermodynamic equilibria. An example of the model is given for the competitive equilibria between calcium binding at the interface and calcium-citrate complex formation in the bulk electrolyte. Unless one uses sophisticated models patient benefit: risk ratios may be compromised through oversimplification.