Recent developments in double layer theory

Abstract

AbstractRecent developments in the theory of the double layer are discussed with special emphasis on results for the Primitive Model double layer obtained since 1984 and computer simulations of the behaviour of water near surfaces. Recent results for the HNC/HNC theory of the Primitive Model double layer are compared with two new approaches, which allow ion‐ion correlations to change in response to a varying surface charge. Both new approaches appear very promising, and herald the imminent completion of this phase of double layer research. Computer simulation studies of point‐charge models of water near simple, non‐polar surfaces are then reviewed. The paper finishes with a look at the limited simulation results for water near polar surfaces and aqueous electrolyte at a non‐polar surface, studies which presage a new stage of double layer theory — the simulation of the metal/aqueous electrolyte interface.