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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 within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), CAPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Chemistry, Physical) / CiteScore - Q2 (Chemistry (miscellaneous))
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 20.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2026).
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: 3.8 (2025); 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.3 (2025)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2504-5377

Latest Articles

16 pages, 12546 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Synergistic Integration of Spherical Fe₃O₄ Nanoparticles and Wood-Sourced Carbon Surface for Highly Efficient Microwave Absorption via Interfacial Optimization

by Xinxiu Cao, Jiateng Chen, Xiaowei Kang, Yanjun Li, Minzhen Bao and Yu Wang

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10040054 - 16 Jul 2026

With the pervasive deployment of 5G communication systems and electronic devices, electromagnetic (EM) pollution has emerged as a critical environmental concern. Due to their wide availability, low cost, and ease of acquisition, biomass materials have been widely used in the preparation of electromagnetic [...] Read more.

With the pervasive deployment of 5G communication systems and electronic devices, electromagnetic (EM) pollution has emerged as a critical environmental concern. Due to their wide availability, low cost, and ease of acquisition, biomass materials have been widely used in the preparation of electromagnetic wave absorption materials. Compared with traditional in situ impregnation methods, this study first employs chemical reagents to reduce the lignin content within balsa wood, thereby opening more pores and enhancing the loading capacity of iron salts. Subsequently, magnetic Fe₃O₄ particles are synthesized in situ, enabling the fabrication of magnetic wood-based composites. Compared with the non-impregnated pure carbonized samples, the reflection loss value of the samples with magnetic particles increased to −42.37 dB, corresponding to a matching thickness of 1.5 mm. This is much better than the −8.79 dB of the pure carbonized samples, and is attributed to multiple loss mechanisms. In addition, modern physical and chemical analysis instruments such as SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, and Raman were used to characterize the physical and chemical changes of the materials. Finally, its applications in aerospace and thermal response were identified. Full article

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25 pages, 1671 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Bitumen Extraction from Oil Sands via Targeted Emulsified Solvent Injection (TESI)

by Aurelio Stammitti-Scarpone and Edgar Acosta

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10040053 - 13 Jul 2026

This work introduces a Targeted Emulsified-Solvent Injection (TESI) process for extracting bitumen from oil sands. In TESI, a solvent is emulsified near the emulsion phase inversion point (PIP), where the interfacial tension and the emulsion stability are very low. This allows the solvent [...] Read more.

This work introduces a Targeted Emulsified-Solvent Injection (TESI) process for extracting bitumen from oil sands. In TESI, a solvent is emulsified near the emulsion phase inversion point (PIP), where the interfacial tension and the emulsion stability are very low. This allows the solvent to be easily emulsified and then deposited onto the bitumen-coated porous media (under lower shear conditions, where the emulsion breaks), mixing with bitumen, decreasing bitumen viscosity, and enabling mobilization and diluted bitumen recovery. The design of the surfactant-solvent formulation was guided by the Hydrophilic-Lipophilic-Difference and Net-Average-Curvature (HLD-NAC) frameworks. The HLD-NAC was used to identify a formulation with less than 1% surfactant exhibiting ultralow interfacial tension (~10⁻³ mJ/m²), at the PIP, where HLD = 0. This formulation was injected into columns packed with bitumen-coated sands at varying salinities and water-to-solvent ratios. Using optimal conditions, bitumen recoveries of up to 83% can be obtained at room temperature, without the need for steam or high-pressure injection, a condition suitable for intermediate-depth reservoirs. The effluent emulsion of diluted bitumen can be gravity-separated, allowing for the recycling of the aqueous solution containing the surfactant. The recovery curves were modeled using a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) model coupled with a Capillary number model for thin viscous films that allowed the prediction of effluent diluted bitumen viscosities and an estimation of the pressure drops in the column that were consistent with experimental observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Colloids and Interfaces in Crude Oil Recovery)

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15 pages, 1873 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Features of Nanofluid/Surfactant Interfacial Layers and Foam Stabilization

by Miras Issakhov, Maratbek Gabdullin, Fariza Amankeldi, Altynay Sharipova, Saule Aidarova and Reinhard Miller

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(4), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10040052 - 13 Jul 2026

Controlling the interfacial behavior is essential for understanding the efficiency of surfactant–nanoparticle systems in practice. In this study, we investigate how silica (SiO₂) nanoparticles alter the surface and interfacial properties of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solutions at water–air and water–hexane interfaces, [...] Read more.

Controlling the interfacial behavior is essential for understanding the efficiency of surfactant–nanoparticle systems in practice. In this study, we investigate how silica (SiO₂) nanoparticles alter the surface and interfacial properties of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solutions at water–air and water–hexane interfaces, as well as their impact on the formation and stabilization of foams. While the negatively charged SiO₂ nanoparticles alone exhibit negligible surface activity, their combination with SDS leads to the formation of composite interfacial layers with enhanced surface pressure and dilational viscoelasticity. The increase in interfacial pressure reflects a high surface concentration and denser packing of SDS–SiO₂ associates. Interfacial rheology measurements show that SDS–SiO₂ nanofluids form more elastic interfacial films compared to pure SDS, with a maximum dilational elasticity at intermediate surfactant concentrations. This indicates the formation of mechanically stronger interfacial layers capable of resisting deformation. Foam experiments demonstrate that silica nanoparticles significantly improve foam formation and foam stability. These improvements correlate with increased surface pressure and interfacial elasticity, demonstrating that foam stability is primarily determined by the formation of robust interfacial layers and not solely by a reduction in surface tension. Overall, this study demonstrates how the presence of silica nanoparticles can affect the adsorption of SDS via hydrophobic interaction, leading to the formation of stronger interfacial films, improved foam stability, and expanded potential for applications in industrial processes, such as foam flooding based on nanoparticle/surfactant solutions to enhance oil–gas recovery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bubble and Drop 2025 (B&D 2025))

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16 pages, 11770 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Bioinspired Superhydrophobic Coating Based on Facile Mineralization of Calcium Carbonate: Enhanced Corrosion Protection for Brass Metal

by Songqiang Huang, Shicai Lu, Yuanyuan Chen, Rongchao Wang, Wancai Zhong, Peng Qi and Peng Wang

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10040051 - 7 Jul 2026

Bioinspired superhydrophobic surfaces (SHS) have been proven to afford high corrosion inhibition to the underlying metal. Targeting brass metal, this paper presents a biomimetic mineralization route for obtaining SHS. Calcium carbonate is first synthesized in an ethanol solution containing an organic curing agent [...] Read more.

Bioinspired superhydrophobic surfaces (SHS) have been proven to afford high corrosion inhibition to the underlying metal. Targeting brass metal, this paper presents a biomimetic mineralization route for obtaining SHS. Calcium carbonate is first synthesized in an ethanol solution containing an organic curing agent through CO₂ gas introduction, resulting in colloidal material. Subsequent modification with stearic acid yields the SHS. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) experiments reveal that the biomimetic calcium carbonate cluster coating significantly improves the corrosion inhibition performance. After the coverage of the CaCO₃ SHS, the low-frequency impedance modulus value increases to 4.6 × 10⁵ Ω cm², which is enhanced compared with the bare brass with 3.2 × 10³ Ω cm². Meanwhile, the corrosion current density value decreases substantially from 2.31 × 10⁻⁶ mA/cm² for bare metal to 1.30 × 10⁻⁸ mA/cm² for the SHS surface. This demonstrates its high anti-corrosion properties. Acid-base corrosion tests further confirm the good resistance of the coating to an alkaline environment. Moreover, the coating exhibits anti-freezing adhesion and self-cleaning properties, surpassing the bare brass. The combined characteristics of the biomimetic calcium carbonate SHS coating highlight the promising potential in corrosion protection applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Functional Materials and Interfaces for Sustainable Technology Development)

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28 pages, 2269 KB

Open AccessReview

Coated and Hybrid Silicon Carbide Nanowires: Advanced Surface Engineering, Interface Control and Functional Applications

by Minahil Ishtiaq, Bin Li, Xiaoyu Shen, Yuanhui Liu, Huan Lin, Bo Zhang and Junhong Chen

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(4), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10040050 - 30 Jun 2026

Silicon carbide (SiC) nanowires possess unique one-dimensional structural features, excellent mechanical strength, thermal stability and wide bandgap properties, showing great potential in high-temperature electronics, catalysis, sensing and composite reinforcement. Nevertheless, pristine SiC nanowires suffer from inert surface activity, weak interfacial compatibility and limited [...] Read more.

Silicon carbide (SiC) nanowires possess unique one-dimensional structural features, excellent mechanical strength, thermal stability and wide bandgap properties, showing great potential in high-temperature electronics, catalysis, sensing and composite reinforcement. Nevertheless, pristine SiC nanowires suffer from inert surface activity, weak interfacial compatibility and limited optoelectronic and catalytic performance. Surface coating and heterojunction engineering are effective strategies to address these deficiencies. This review systematically summarizes the synthesis routes of pristine SiC nanowires, including carbothermal reduction, chemical vapor deposition, template-assisted growth and molten salt synthesis, as well as their morphological regulation, physicochemical properties and inherent limitations. Meanwhile, typical coating methods such as wet chemical, hydrothermal, CVD and PIP are elaborated, and the influences of coating thickness, uniformity, adhesion and lattice/thermal compatibility on performance are summarized. The classification and interfacial charge mechanism of Type II, Z-scheme and Schottky heterojunctions are discussed, and the advances of coated SiC nanowires in photodetection, photocatalysis, gas sensing, electromagnetic shielding and energy storage are reviewed. Current challenges including coating stability, scalable preparation and integration bottlenecks are pointed out, and future research directions focusing on interface control, multifunctional integration and AI-assisted material design are prospected. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Colloids and Interfaces)

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15 pages, 1903 KB

Open AccessArticle

Laminarin-Loaded Solid-in-Oil Nanodispersion for Enhanced Non-Invasive Transdermal Immunization

by Md. Shahin Sarker, Yoshirou Kawaguchi, Rie Wakabayashi, Noriho Kamiya, Muhammad Moniruzzaman and Masahiro Goto

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(4), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10040049 - 25 Jun 2026

Simple and non-invasive transdermal vaccination is an attractive alternative to conventional injection-based immunization. However, the effectiveness of transdermal vaccines is often constrained by the stratum corneum barrier. Although the use of solid-in-oil (S/O) nanodispersion technology has successfully facilitated skin permeation to induce an [...] Read more.

Simple and non-invasive transdermal vaccination is an attractive alternative to conventional injection-based immunization. However, the effectiveness of transdermal vaccines is often constrained by the stratum corneum barrier. Although the use of solid-in-oil (S/O) nanodispersion technology has successfully facilitated skin permeation to induce an immunological response, the antibody titers remain suboptimal. Herein, a dectin-1 selective ligand, laminarin, was used as an immunostimulatory adjuvant to enhance the immune response. S/O nanodispersions loaded with laminarin and ovalbumin (OVA) were systematically developed and characterized in terms of particle size, in vitro OVA release behavior, and skin permeation performance using excised mouse skin. In vivo immunization via transcutaneous administration was performed to evaluate biocompatibility and antigen-specific immunoglobulin-G (IgG) responses. Laminarin-loaded S/O nanodispersions demonstrated long-term stability and efficient ex vivo skin permeability. All the prepared laminarin-loaded S/O nanodispersions showed increased OVA-specific IgG responses compared with the laminarin-free S/O formulation. Among the formulations, the S/O nanodispersion containing OVA and laminarin at a 1:4 weight ratio induced 20-fold higher OVA-specific IgG responses than PBS and 7-fold higher responses than laminarin-free S/O formulations. This study clearly demonstrates the potential of laminarin-loaded S/O nanodispersions as a non-invasive vaccine delivery platform for enhancing antigen-specific antibody responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Application of Colloids and Interfacial Aspects)

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26 pages, 11094 KB

Open AccessReview

Interfacial Stability, Matrix Effects, and Functional Performance of Nanobubbles in Food Systems

by Javier Silva, Jaime Gómez, Suleivys Nuñez and Javiera Toledo-Alarcón

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030048 - 22 Jun 2026

Nanobubbles have attracted increasing interest in food systems because they can modify gas dispersion, interfacial transport, washing performance, preservation processes, and the structures of dispersed matrices. However, their behavior cannot be interpreted based on bubble size alone. Proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, salts, colloidal particles, [...] Read more.

Nanobubbles have attracted increasing interest in food systems because they can modify gas dispersion, interfacial transport, washing performance, preservation processes, and the structures of dispersed matrices. However, their behavior cannot be interpreted based on bubble size alone. Proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, salts, colloidal particles, gas composition, and processing conditions can alter interfacial adsorption, gas transfer, bubble persistence, and matrix organization in food systems. This review examines the physicochemical mechanisms proposed to explain nanobubble persistence and functionality, with an emphasis on surface charge, interfacial adsorption, gas supersaturation, confinement, and interactions with food biopolymers. A central distinction is made between passive nanobubble-containing systems and externally activated systems involving hydrodynamic cavitation, ultrasound, plasma, pressure fluctuations, and reactive gases. Under passive conditions, nanobubbles mainly act as gas–liquid interfaces that influence local transport and adsorption. In activated systems, microbial inactivation, reactive oxygen species formation, and apparent mass-transfer enhancement often arise from external energy input, gas chemistry, turbulence, and transient supersaturation rather than from nanobubbles alone. Interfacial stability is used here as an organizing concept to connect nanobubble persistence, food-matrix interactions, generation methods, characterization limitations, and interpretation of reported technological effects. Current methods, such as dynamic light scattering and nanoparticle tracking analysis, provide useful size and concentration estimates but cannot unambiguously distinguish nanobubbles from protein aggregates, fat droplets, micelles, polysaccharide assemblies, and other colloidal structures in complex matrices. Therefore, reliable interpretation requires complementary methods, appropriate controls, and standardized reporting of gas composition, generation method, energy input, matrix properties, and processing conditions. Thus, nanobubble-containing technologies show promise for food processing; however, their value depends on the separation of nanoscale interfacial effects from concurrent hydrodynamic, chemical, and matrix-dependent phenomena. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Interfacial Properties)

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14 pages, 2324 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diffusiophoresis of a Charged Dielectric Fluid Droplet in a Cylindrical Pore in the Presence of Diffusion Potential

by Lily Chuang and Eric Lee

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030047 - 15 Jun 2026

We conducted a theoretical analysis on the diffusiophoretic motion of a dielectric droplet in a cylindrical pore in the presence of an induced diffusion potential, such as that in a NaCl electrolyte solution. The fundamental electrokinetic governing equations are solved using a patched [...] Read more.

We conducted a theoretical analysis on the diffusiophoretic motion of a dielectric droplet in a cylindrical pore in the presence of an induced diffusion potential, such as that in a NaCl electrolyte solution. The fundamental electrokinetic governing equations are solved using a patched pseudo-spectral method based on Chebyshev polynomials, coupled with a geometric mapping scheme to handle the irregular solution domain. The impact of the boundary confinement effect on droplet mobility is examined in detail. Interesting electrokinetic phenomena are found in this work, such as mobility reversal in narrow cylindrical pores with the droplet moving against the direction expected based on the classical Coulomb electrostatic law due to the strong boundary confinement effect. Moreover, “solidification phenomenon” is also found at some specific pore radius where the droplets move as rigid particles with no interior recirculating vortex flows regardless of the droplet viscosities. Corresponding critical points of

R_{w}^{*}

, the ratio of droplet radius to the cylindrical radius are found where the spinning orientation on the droplet surface changes each time as it passes them. The profound boundary confinement effect, both electrostatically and hydrodynamically, is responsible for these peculiar phenomena. The results presented here have direct applications in microfluidic and nanofluidic operations as well as drug delivery applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art of Colloid and Interface Science in Asia: 2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 11773 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Facial Toner Formulation (Cosmetic) Considering the Surface and Aggregation Properties of Non-Ionic Surfactants in Water–Glycol Systems

by Wiktoria Orzechowicz, Tomasz Wasilewski, Zofia Hordyjewicz-Baran, Natalia Stanek-Wandzel, Joanna Fleszer and Katarzyna Malorna

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030046 - 10 Jun 2026

This study presents the development and comprehensive characterization of innovative formulations for facial toners based on micellar water–glycol systems. The study evaluated aqueous solutions of three natural glycols—1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butylene glycol, and 1,2-pentylene glycol—both as extraction agents and as functional ingredients in facial toner [...] Read more.

This study presents the development and comprehensive characterization of innovative formulations for facial toners based on micellar water–glycol systems. The study evaluated aqueous solutions of three natural glycols—1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butylene glycol, and 1,2-pentylene glycol—both as extraction agents and as functional ingredients in facial toner formulations. The physicochemical properties (viscosity, color, contact angle) and aggregation behavior (CMC, particle size) were analyzed to determine the effect of the extraction medium on the efficiency of plant-derived metabolite extraction. Grapevine buds, obtained from a byproduct of grape cultivation, were used as the plant material. The extracts obtained were evaluated in terms of active ingredient content and antioxidant potential using LC-MS/MS and UV-VIS techniques, respectively. The results showed that pentylene glycol-based micellar systems exhibited the lowest CMC value and the most favorable wetting properties, leading to the highest phenolic content and antioxidant activity in the extracts. Facial toners containing these extracts were subjected to functional and application tests, assessing, among other things, viscosity, wetting angle, and irritation potential. The study results provide new insights into the relationship between surfactant aggregation, glycol-based media, and cosmetic formulation design, offering a balanced and effective strategy for developing multifunctional skin care products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Application of Colloids and Interfacial Aspects)

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1 pages, 128 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for a New Section: Application of Colloids and Interfacial Aspects

by Spencer E. Taylor and Eleni P. Kalogianni

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030045 - 9 Jun 2026

Colloidal systems and interfacial phenomena underpin a multitude of applied technologies through their ability to control the evolution and interactions of dispersed phases [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Application of Colloids and Interfacial Aspects)

18 pages, 2271 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanism of Imidazole Collectors in the Hydrophobic Agglomeration and Flotation Behavior of Quartz

by Siyu Chen, Yuankun Yang, Yanming Wu, Shengli Yu, Bingchao Lv, Chongzhong Ouyang, Xiang Yao, Yuan Chen and Guohua Gu

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030044 - 29 May 2026

Imidazole-based ionic liquids hold immense potential in the field of mineral flotation due to their tunable properties. In this study, three imidazole-based ionic liquids with varying carbon chain lengths (OMB, DMB, and HMB) were selected as collectors for quartz flotation to systematically investigate [...] Read more.

Imidazole-based ionic liquids hold immense potential in the field of mineral flotation due to their tunable properties. In this study, three imidazole-based ionic liquids with varying carbon chain lengths (OMB, DMB, and HMB) were selected as collectors for quartz flotation to systematically investigate the microscopic mechanisms by which carbon chain length influences the agglomeration and flotation behavior of quartz. Flotation tests and online particle-bubble monitoring (PBM) results indicate that the elongation of the collector’s carbon chain significantly enhances its collecting ability and reduces the required reagent dosage. To achieve the complete recovery of quartz in a neutral system, a dosage of 35 mg/L is required for OMB, whereas HMB requires only 8 mg/L. As the carbon chain lengthens, the optimal pH range for highly efficient flotation shifts from alkaline to neutral-acidic. Interfacial measurements and mechanistic analyses (Zeta potential and FTIR spectroscopy) confirm that the imidazole ring of the collector physically adsorbs onto the quartz surface through the synergistic action of electrostatic forces and hydrogen bonding, thereby inducing the hydrophobic agglomeration of particles. Notably, in a strongly alkaline system (pH = 11), the long-chain HMB promotes the formation of oversized quartz agglomerates. This leads to a depletion of free reagents in the liquid phase and destabilizes the bubble liquid film, ultimately triggering a sharp decline in recovery. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations further corroborate the structure–activity relationship at the molecular level: the extension of the carbon chain increases the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy and electron-donating ability. The adsorption energy of HMB on the quartz (001) surface reached −350.2 kJ/mol, exhibiting the strongest solid–liquid interfacial affinity. This study elucidates the competitive mechanism of carbon chain length in regulating electrostatic adsorption, hydrophobic agglomeration, and froth stability, providing a solid theoretical foundation for the molecular design of novel green flotation reagents for quartz. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Colloids and Interfaces in Mineral Processing and Resource Recovery)

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12 pages, 2309 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Yeast-Based Pickering Emulsions: Is Yeast Truly the Stabilizing Agent?

by Carlotta Cappabianca, Daniele Marra, Irene Perna, Angeliki P. Chondrou, Ourania Oikonomidou, Maria Petala, Thodoris D. Karapantsios and Sergio Caserta

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030043 - 28 May 2026

The increasing demand for sustainable and affordable surfactants requires the exploration of novel bio-based alternatives. In this context, this work investigates the potential of baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as a surface-active agent. To this purpose, the performance of commercial dry, commercial [...] Read more.

The increasing demand for sustainable and affordable surfactants requires the exploration of novel bio-based alternatives. In this context, this work investigates the potential of baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as a surface-active agent. To this purpose, the performance of commercial dry, commercial fresh, and cultivated yeast was evaluated by characterizing their wetting behavior and formulating emulsions with a fixed oil-to-water ratio. Microscopic and macroscopic stability was monitored over 24 h and quantified via the creaming index (CI). The experimental results demonstrate that both the yeast source and concentration significantly dictate the surface properties and emulsion stability. Notably, commercial dry yeast exhibited the highest degree of hydrophobicity, likely attributed to the presence of sorbitan monostearate (SMS) in the formulation. Consequently, this was the main variant capable of producing stable emulsions, with microscopic evidence suggesting a Pickering-like stabilization mechanism driven by the irreversible adsorption of yeast cells at the oil–water interface. Conversely, commercial fresh and cultivated yeast failed to exert significant stabilizing activity. These results demonstrate that S. cerevisiae biomass can be effectively repurposed as a functional constituent in green emulsion technology, offering a scalable pathway for the development of biocompatible, particle-stabilized industrial formulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bubble and Drop 2025 (B&D 2025))

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18 pages, 2611 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Reducing Agent Nature on the Self-Assembly and Stability of Molybdenum Blue Dispersions Prepared via Ion-Exchange Route

by Dmitry Chertin, Ilya Zavidovskiy, Ilya Borisov and Natalia Gavrilova

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030042 - 22 May 2026

Molybdenum blue dispersions were synthesized via an ion-exchange approach using hydroquinone and glucose as reducing agents to clarify the influence of reductant chemistry on redox evolution and colloidal stability. Electrolyte-free conditions enabled controlled self-assembly of reduced polyoxomolybdate clusters. UV–Vis spectroscopy revealed characteristic absorption [...] Read more.

Molybdenum blue dispersions were synthesized via an ion-exchange approach using hydroquinone and glucose as reducing agents to clarify the influence of reductant chemistry on redox evolution and colloidal stability. Electrolyte-free conditions enabled controlled self-assembly of reduced polyoxomolybdate clusters. UV–Vis spectroscopy revealed characteristic absorption bands at ~750 and ~1100 nm associated with intervalence charge transfer in mixed-valence Mo⁵⁺/Mo⁶⁺ clusters, with hydroquinone stabilizing more deeply reduced clusters, while glucose-derived systems demonstrated a higher degree of reduction with a higher ratio of reducing agent to metal. Time dependence of oxidation–reduction potential and optical density measurements demonstrated prolonged redox equilibration and gradual self-organization over several weeks. Dynamic light scattering confirmed the formation of nanoclusters with comparable hydrodynamic diameters of approximately 3.5 nm for both reducing agents. Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy indicated structurally similar polyoxomolybdate frameworks. In contrast, electrokinetic measurements revealed pronounced differences in surface chemistry and stability: hydroquinone-derived dispersions exhibited robust, pH-independent electrostatic stabilization, whereas glucose-derived systems showed weaker, pH-dependent stabilization and rapid electrolyte-induced aggregation. These results demonstrate that the nature of the reducing agent has an impact on the synthesis and colloidal behavior of molybdenum blue dispersions synthesized by the ion-exchange route. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Colloidal Systems)

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22 pages, 2714 KB

Open AccessArticle

Colloidal Properties and Potential Applications of Branched Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)

by Anton V. Grivin, Il’ya I. Kraynik, Daniil A. Kabanov, Anna M. Nechaeva, Gali D. Markova, Eva S. Burmitskaya, Anton M. Shulgin, Anna V. Andreeva, Vasilina A. Zakharova, Oleg A. Raitman, Svetlana O. Samusenko, Irina I. Levina, Mikhail V. Motyakin, Valerie A. Dyatlov, Irina Yu. Gorbunova, Inessa A. Gritskova, Valeriy P. Meshalkin and Yaroslav O. Mezhuev

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030041 - 19 May 2026

Branched poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was synthesized via chemical modification of linear PVA with epichlorohydrin in an alkaline aqueous medium under conditions preventing crosslinking. Branching was confirmed by IR and Heteronuclear Single Quantum Coherence (HSQC) spectroscopy, as well as by viscometric analysis. An iterative [...] Read more.

Branched poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was synthesized via chemical modification of linear PVA with epichlorohydrin in an alkaline aqueous medium under conditions preventing crosslinking. Branching was confirmed by IR and Heteronuclear Single Quantum Coherence (HSQC) spectroscopy, as well as by viscometric analysis. An iterative procedure is proposed for refining the branching factor (g) and the viscosity-average molecular weight of the branched macromolecules. Coil diameters determined by viscometry and dynamic light scattering showed satisfactory agreement. While an increase in the viscosity-average molecular weight of branched PVA enhances its surface activity in the low-adsorption region, the branched geometry itself hinders subsequent adsorption due to steric shielding of the interface. This correlates with wetting behavior on Teflon: lightly branched PVA requires a higher concentration to induce wetting inversion than its linear counterpart but further increase in molecular weight shifts the inversion point to lower concentrations due to a higher density of hydroxyl groups. Concurrently, the concentration dependence of the work of adhesion degenerates with increasing molecular weight. Despite their reduced adsorption capacity, the specific geometry of branched PVA macromolecules provides effective steric stabilization of micrometer-sized particles during styrene suspension polymerization. These results demonstrate that chain branching in PVA is a powerful tool for tuning its adsorption properties, stabilizing ability, and interfacial activity. Full article

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15 pages, 19528 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Physisorption of Cyclic Poly(ethylene glycol) on Platinum Nanoparticles for Dispersion Stabilization and Catalytic Applications

by Mayu Kakizaki, Makoto Hikichi, Kotaro Okawa, Masatoshi Maeki, Manabu Tokeshi, Ryota Suzuki, Tianle Gao, Feng Li, Takuya Isono, Kenji Tajima, Toshifumi Satoh, Shin-ichiro Sato and Takuya Yamamoto

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030040 - 12 May 2026

Dispersion stabilization of nanoparticles for catalytic reactions is an important issue. However, dispersing agents should be carefully selected not to hinder catalytic performance. In the present study, physisorption of cyclic poly(ethylene glycol) (c-PEG) onto platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) was investigated in comparison [...] Read more.

Dispersion stabilization of nanoparticles for catalytic reactions is an important issue. However, dispersing agents should be carefully selected not to hinder catalytic performance. In the present study, physisorption of cyclic poly(ethylene glycol) (c-PEG) onto platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) was investigated in comparison with unmodified PtNPs (PtNPs/No PEG), PtNPs mixed with linear PEG (PtNPs/HO-PEG-OH), and PtNPs chemisorbed with HS-PEG-OMe (PtNPs/HS-PEG-OMe). DLS showed a significant increase in the particle size for PtNPs/c-PEG and PtNPs/HS-PEG-OMe compared to PtNPs/No PEG and PtNPs/HO-PEG-OH. ζ-potential measurements revealed values around −30 mV for PtNPs/No PEG and PtNPs/HO-PEG-OH, whereas PtNPs/c-PEG and PtNPs/HS-PEG-OMe approached 0 mV, which indicated that c-PEG and HS-PEG-OMe adsorb onto PtNPs to form a shielding layer. Moreover, PtNPs/c-PEG and PtNPs/HS-PEG-OMe were stable in a phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution, but PtNPs/No PEG and PtNPs/HO-PEG-OH immediately aggregated. This suggests that high dispersion stability by c-PEG is comparable to ordinary surface modification using HS-PEG-OMe. Furthermore, the catalytic ability of PtNPs/c-PEG and PtNPs/HS-PEG-OMe was compared in various reactions. As a result, physisorbed PtNPs/c-PEG showed suitable catalytic activities, whereas chemisorbed PtNPs/HS-PEG-OMe was significantly hampered by the blocking of the catalytic sites with thiol in some reactions. Thus, physisorption of c-PEG endows PtNPs with dispersion stability and maintains the catalytic ability, leading to an alternative way of modifying metal nanoparticles. Full article

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2 pages, 131 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for a New Section: Colloidal Systems

by Akmal Nazir and Plamen Tchoukov

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030039 - 11 May 2026

From a colloid science perspective, colloidal systems are not simply heterogeneous mixtures, but organized dispersed media in which solid particles, liquid droplets, gas bubbles, or other mesoscopic entities are distributed within a continuous phase [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Colloidal Systems)

68 pages, 24466 KB

Open AccessReview

Comprehensive Rheology of Dilute Emulsions

by Rajinder Pal

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030038 - 8 May 2026

The rheology of dilute emulsions is reviewed comprehensively. The fundamental equations governing the flow fields inside and outside the droplets are discussed, along with the boundary conditions. The rheological constitutive law for dilute emulsions with pure interfaces characterized by interfacial tension is developed [...] Read more.

The rheology of dilute emulsions is reviewed comprehensively. The fundamental equations governing the flow fields inside and outside the droplets are discussed, along with the boundary conditions. The rheological constitutive law for dilute emulsions with pure interfaces characterized by interfacial tension is developed using the flow field external to the droplets. Both zero-order and first-order deformations of droplets are considered. Dilute emulsions exhibit non-Newtonian behavior. The influences of surface charge and surfactants on the emulsion rheology are covered in detail. The rheology of emulsions of double droplets and droplets covered with elastic membranes is covered as well. Finally, a significant section of the review is focused on the dynamic rheology of dilute emulsions. Emulsions with pure interfaces and additive-laden interfaces are considered. The theories developed for the dynamic rheology of emulsions consisting of different types of interfaces are reviewed, including purely viscous interfaces, purely elastic interfaces, viscoelastic interfaces, and interfaces possessing bending rigidity. In general, the theory for dilute emulsion rheology is well developed. Our current understanding of dilute emulsion rheology is good from a theoretical point of view. A priori predictions of dilute emulsion rheology are possible using the existing theories. However, serious gaps in the existing knowledge on dilute emulsion rheology remain. This review identifies the gaps in existing knowledge and points out future directions in research related to dilute emulsion rheology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers of the Editorial Board Members of Colloids and Interfaces 2024–2026)

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51 pages, 2357 KB

Open AccessReview

Gum Arabic Modification Routes for Food Colloids and Encapsulation: Structure–Property–Process Relationships and Engineering Trade-Offs

by Janaina Lima, Yasmin Diniz de Morais, Lidiane Fernandes, Rogério Andrade, Leonardo Batista, Ana M. Sarinho, Maria Eduarda Costa, Renata Duarte Almeida and Hugo M. Lisboa

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030037 - 29 Apr 2026

Cited by 1

Gum arabic (GA) is a widely used natural hydrocolloid in food processing because its protein–polysaccharide architecture combines high water solubility, low bulk viscosity, and useful interfacial activity. These attributes make GA valuable as an emulsifier, encapsulating agent, and film-forming material, but native GA [...] Read more.

Gum arabic (GA) is a widely used natural hydrocolloid in food processing because its protein–polysaccharide architecture combines high water solubility, low bulk viscosity, and useful interfacial activity. These attributes make GA valuable as an emulsifier, encapsulating agent, and film-forming material, but native GA is constrained by source-dependent heterogeneity, limited antioxidant functionality, relatively high dosage requirements in some emulsions, and modest barrier and mechanical performance in dried matrices. This review synthesizes recent advances in chemical functionalization, enzymatic and oxidative grafting, physical fractionation and complexation, and Maillard-type bioconjugation as routes to tailor GA for food engineering applications. Emphasis is placed on process-relevant structure–property relationships, including dynamic adsorption, interfacial rheology, emulsifying and encapsulation efficiency, bulk rheology, powder glass transition and hygroscopicity, film barrier behavior, and release kinetics. Across beverage emulsions, spray-dried powders, coacervates, coatings, and delivery systems, the evidence shows that modification must be selected according to the dominant process bottleneck, such as adsorption kinetics, oxidative stability, drying behavior, or humidity-sensitive matrix mobility. This review also identifies priorities for translation, including model-ready measurements, the management of raw-material variability, scale-up-aware processing, and sustainability and regulatory practicality. Overall, modified GA emerges as a versatile platform for designing more robust, application-specific food colloids, encapsulates, and functional coatings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Colloids and Interfaces)

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16 pages, 1667 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Some Aspects of the Stability of Nanobubbles

by Ramonna I. Kosheleva, Agni A. Moutzouroglou, George Z. Kyzas and Athanasios Mitropoulos

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030036 - 28 Apr 2026

The temporal dynamics and statistical properties of air nanobubbles (NBs) in ultrapure water were investigated using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). Statistical analysis of NB lifetimes reveals a strong correlation between bubble size and persistence. The mean bubble diameter increases rapidly from ~100 nm [...] Read more.

The temporal dynamics and statistical properties of air nanobubbles (NBs) in ultrapure water were investigated using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). Statistical analysis of NB lifetimes reveals a strong correlation between bubble size and persistence. The mean bubble diameter increases rapidly from ~100 nm for short-lived detections to a characteristic size of about 500 nm for bubbles surviving longer than 40 frames, after which the size remains approximately constant. The population of detected NBs decreases monotonically with increasing lifetime, approximately following an exponential decay. Temporal analysis of the cumulative population yields a scaling exponent of ~0.6, indicating correlated fluctuations rather than independent stochastic events. Spatial observations confirm that NBs are separated by micrometer-scale distances, excluding direct bubble–bubble interactions. The combined statistical and imaging results support a picture in which NBs behave as dynamically coupled gas domains embedded within localized dissolved-gas microenvironments. The observed non-monotonic population dynamics cannot be explained by irreversible dissolution alone. Instead, the data indicate that NBs undergo continuous cycles of dissolution and replenishment. Within this framework, localized gas micro-domains, potentially exhibiting non-extensive behaviour, evolve dynamically and act as transient reservoirs. Upon bubble disappearance, these regions persist and diffuse, while their interaction may locally restore conditions for nucleation. This mechanism provides a physically consistent explanation for the observed cyclic behaviour and the apparent persistence of NBs beyond classical predictions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bubble and Drop 2025 (B&D 2025))

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15 pages, 1480 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Colloidal Stability and Lipid-Lowering Effects of Fermented Cyclocarya paliurus-Based Tea Beverages

by Shanshan Zeng, Yun Chen, Wentong Chen, Jing Wang, Yunlin Zeng, Yong Cao and Yunjiao Chen

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10030035 - 27 Apr 2026

Cyclocarya paliurus polysaccharides (CPP) possess various physiological functions such as lipid-lowering and antioxidant activities. However, as a complex plant-based dispersion system, the interfacial characteristics of fermented C. paliurus beverages often restrict the release of bioefficacy of the active ingredients. This study investigated the [...] Read more.

Cyclocarya paliurus polysaccharides (CPP) possess various physiological functions such as lipid-lowering and antioxidant activities. However, as a complex plant-based dispersion system, the interfacial characteristics of fermented C. paliurus beverages often restrict the release of bioefficacy of the active ingredients. This study investigated the impact of particle size on the colloidal stability and lipid-lowering activity of C. paliurus beverages fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum and established an empirical correlation between the two. While the 200–300 mesh fraction showed superior physical stability, the 40–60 mesh fraction was identified as the optimal formulation in this study when balancing ROS indicators. In vivo assays using Caenorhabditis elegans demonstrated that the 40–60 mesh formulation significantly reduced MDA levels and inhibited lipid accumulation, decreasing TG content by 19–46%. Notably, the average diameter of lipid droplets decreased by 38.4%, promoting the conversion of large storage-type droplets to small/medium-sized droplets with high metabolic activity. This study reveals the trade-off between physical dispersibility and bioavailability, providing a theoretical basis for optimizing the interfacial structure of functional plant-based beverages. Full article

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