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Transport of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles in Porous Media: Characterization and Quantification of Retention Informed by Atomic Force Microscopy
Onset of Tectomeric Self-Assemblies in Aqueous Solutions of Three-Antennary Oligoglycines

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 within Scopus, 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 19.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second 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)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2504-5377

Latest Articles

22 pages, 5019 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Bioactivity and Antibacterial Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Surfaces Modified by Electrical Discharge Machining

by Bárbara A. B. dos Santos, Rafael E. G. Leal, Ana P. G. Gomes, Liszt Y. C. Madruga, Ketul C. Popat, Hermes de Souza Costa and Roberta M. Sabino

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010012 - 22 Jan 2026

Bacterial infections and the lack of bioactivity of titanium implants and their alloys remain critical challenges for the long-term performance and clinical success of these devices. These issues arise from the undesirable combination of early microbial adhesion and the limited ability of metallic [...] Read more.

Bacterial infections and the lack of bioactivity of titanium implants and their alloys remain critical challenges for the long-term performance and clinical success of these devices. These issues arise from the undesirable combination of early microbial adhesion and the limited ability of metallic surfaces to form a bioactive interface capable of supporting osseointegration. To address these limitations simultaneously, this study employed electrical discharge machining (EDM), which enables surface topography modification and in situ incorporation of bioactive ions from the dielectric fluid. Ti-6Al-4V ELI surfaces were modified using two dielectric fluids, a fluorine/phosphorus-based solution (DF1-F) and a calcium/phosphorus-based solution (DF2-Ca), under positive and negative polarities. The recast layer was characterized by SEM and EDS, while bioactivity was evaluated through immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) for up to 21 days. Antibacterial performance was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus at 6 h and 24 h of incubation. The results demonstrated that dielectric composition and polarity strongly influenced ionic incorporation and the structural stability of the modified layers. The DF2-Ca(+) condition exhibited the most favorable bioactive response, with Ca/P ratios closer to hydroxyapatite and surface morphologies typical of mineralized coatings. In antibacterial assays, Ca/P-containing surfaces significantly decreased S. aureus attachment (>80–90%). Overall, EDM with Ca/P-containing dielectrics enables the fabrication of Ti-6Al-4V surfaces with enhanced mineralization capacity and anti-adhesive effects against Gram-positive bacteria, reinforcing their potential for multifunctional biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 3rd Edition)

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11 pages, 2861 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation Efficiency Enabled by Flower-like BiVO₄ Microspheres Constituted of Nanosheets

by Chenhui Song, Junmou Zhou, Zhuoheng Wu, Lehao Liu, Jinkui Zhang and Junfeng Ma

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010011 - 21 Jan 2026

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO₄) has been regarded as a valuable semiconductor material for photocatalytic decomposition of organic pollutants thanks to its narrow band gap and environmental friendliness. However, its practical application is restricted by its small specific surface area, severe photo-generated carrier [...] Read more.

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO₄) has been regarded as a valuable semiconductor material for photocatalytic decomposition of organic pollutants thanks to its narrow band gap and environmental friendliness. However, its practical application is restricted by its small specific surface area, severe photo-generated carrier recombination, and low photocatalytic degradation efficiency. Herein, a microemulsion method followed by a hydrothermal process is developed to prepare a flower-like BiVO₄ microsphere constituted of thin nanosheets. Because of increase in reactive sites, facilitation of photo-induced carrier transfer, and generation of high-activity superoxygen (•O₂⁻) and hydroxyl (•OH) radicals, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of the flower-like BiVO₄ microparticle (synthesized with a hydrothermal duration of 6 h) for Congo red reaches 86.2% with a high degradation rate constant of 0.0134 min⁻¹. Moreover, the cyclic degradation test proves the reasonable photocatalytic stability of the flower-like BiVO₄ microparticle, showing its great application potential for photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Full article

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16 pages, 1502 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of an Artemisia absinthium Essential Oil Nanoemulsion and Evaluation of Its Safety, Stability, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties

by Nojod H. Hasaballah, Shareefa Abdullah AlGhamdi, Adeel G. Chaudhary, Hanan Aati, Jawzaa Almutairi, Shahd Moqaddam, Gumana Alkathiri, Ola Alahmadi, Abdullah Salwati, Rinad Abuzinadah, Khalil Alkuwaity, Wala Andejani and Hossam H. Tayeb

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010010 - 9 Jan 2026

Antimicrobial resistance is driving the urgent need for novel antimicrobials. Nanoemulsions (NEs) offer alternatives to traditional antimicrobials by improving the physiochemical and biological properties of bioactive compounds. Artemisia absinthium essential oil (Art-EO) has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, although its medical applications are limited [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance is driving the urgent need for novel antimicrobials. Nanoemulsions (NEs) offer alternatives to traditional antimicrobials by improving the physiochemical and biological properties of bioactive compounds. Artemisia absinthium essential oil (Art-EO) has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, although its medical applications are limited by hydrophobicity and potential cytotoxicity. To improve these properties, this study investigated an NE loaded with Art-EO (Art-EO NE) extracted via hydrodistillation from A. absinthium grown in Saudi Arabia. Extracted with 0.92% (v/w) yield from the aerial parts of A. absinthium, Art-EO was analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, revealing 29 compounds. The Art-EO NE, prepared using ultrasonication, showed a droplet size of 116 ± 0.2 nm, polydispersity index of 0.14 ± 0.0, and zeta potential of −23.9 ± 1.0 mV determined by dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering. The NE remained physically stable for two months and exhibited antimicrobial activity for one week. Compared to the Art-EO aqueous extract (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC): 20% v/v Art-EO), the Art-EO NE enhanced antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus by 32-fold (MIC: 0.625% v/v Art-EO). The NE also exhibited potent antioxidant activity and produced an acceptable in vivo safety profile. These findings present Art-EO NEs as effective antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. Full article

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11 pages, 4344 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Simple Approximate Relations for van der Waals Interaction Energy Between Spherical Particles of Different Radii and Variable Distances

by Petr Filip and Martin Pivokonsky

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010009 - 9 Jan 2026

The van der Waals (vdW) interaction energy is a crucial factor in evaluating the potential destabilization of colloidal systems, such as those found in drinking-water treatment, where particles are often assumed to be spherical. Although the explicit dependence of the vdW interaction energy [...] Read more.

The van der Waals (vdW) interaction energy is a crucial factor in evaluating the potential destabilization of colloidal systems, such as those found in drinking-water treatment, where particles are often assumed to be spherical. Although the explicit dependence of the vdW interaction energy on the radii of spherical particles and their distances is known, a simple view is lacking due to the complexity of the relations. Here, we propose explicit, algebraically simple, approximate relations that provide insight into the fundamental influence of the input geometrical parameters. These relations, when combined with the exponentially decaying potential generated by the electrical double layer, can provide an approximate evaluation of the onset of raw water destabilization in drinking-water treatment, in other words, establishing the conditions under which pollutants in raw water begin to aggregate. Full article

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17 pages, 1725 KB

Open AccessArticle

Wetting Behavior of Cationic and Anionic Surfactants on Hydrophobic Surfaces: Surface Tension and Contact Angle Measurements

by Sujit Kumar Shah, Rojina Bhattarai, Sujata Gautam, Pawan Shah and Ajaya Bhattarai

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010008 - 8 Jan 2026

In this study, cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and anionic surfactant sodium bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT) are employed to systematically investigate surface and wetting properties on hydrophobic surfaces, specifically in mixed solvents composed of ethylene glycol (EG) and water at 298.15 K. By varying [...] Read more.

In this study, cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and anionic surfactant sodium bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT) are employed to systematically investigate surface and wetting properties on hydrophobic surfaces, specifically in mixed solvents composed of ethylene glycol (EG) and water at 298.15 K. By varying the concentration of each surfactant within the EG–water mixture, both surface tension and contact angle measurements are performed to elucidate how surfactant type and solvent composition influence interfacial behavior and wettability. PTFE and wax surfaces were chosen as model hydrophobic surfaces. Surface tension measurements obtained in pure water and in water–EG mixtures containing 5, 10, and 20 volume percentage EG reveal a consistent decrease in the premicellar slope (

\frac{d γ}{d \log C}

) with increasing EG content. This reduction reflects weakened hydrophobic interactions and less effective surfactant adsorption at the air–solution interface. The corresponding decline in maximum surface excess (

Γ_{m a x}

) and increase in minimum area per molecule (

A_{m i n}

) confirm looser interfacial packing due to EG participation in the solvation layer. Plots of adhesion tension (A_T) versus surface tension (γ) exhibit negative slopes, consistent with reduced solid–liquid interfacial tension (

Γ_{L G}

) and greater redistribution of surfactant molecules toward the solid–liquid interface. AOT shows stronger sensitivity to EG compared to CTAB, reflecting structural headgroup-specific adsorption behavior. Work of adhesion (W_A) measurements demonstrate enhanced wettability at higher EG concentrations, highlighting the cooperative impact of co-solvent environment and surfactant type on wetting phenomena. Full article

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

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29 pages, 5336 KB

Open AccessReview

Lipid-Based Colloidal Nanocarriers for Site-Specific Drug Delivery

by Kamyar Shameli, Behnam Kalali, Hassan Moeini and Aras Kartouzian

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010007 - 4 Jan 2026

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are now the go-to method for delivering genetic medicines, backed by real-world use in patients. Things like which fats they are made of, their shape at the molecular level, how ingredients mix, and how they are built, matter a lot. [...] Read more.

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are now the go-to method for delivering genetic medicines, backed by real-world use in patients. Things like which fats they are made of, their shape at the molecular level, how ingredients mix, and how they are built, matter a lot. This review attempts to take a close look at how different components, such as ionizable lipids, auxiliary lipids (DSPC, DOPE), cholesterol, and PEG-based lipids, affect the bioavailability of LNPs. It also focuses on key functions of LNPs, including packaging genetic material, escaping cellular traps, spreading in the body, and remaining active in the blood. New data show that lipids with the right handedness and highly sensitive chiroptical quality control can sharpen delivery accuracy and boost transport rates, turning stereochemistry into a practical design knob. Rather than simply listing results, we examine real-world examples that are already used to regulate gene expression, enhance mRNA expression, splenic targeting, and show great potential for gene repair, protein replacement, and DNA base-editing applications. Also, recent advances in AI-based designs for LNPs that take molecular shape into account and help speed up modifications to lipid arrangements and mixture configurations are highlighted. In summary, this paper presents a practical and scientific blueprint to support smarter production of advanced LNPs used in genetic medicine, addressing existing obstacles, balanced with future opportunities. Full article

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

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20 pages, 3976 KB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Cannabidiol Nanoemulsion for Skin Protection Against Particulate Matter: Evidence from an Ex Vivo Human Model

by Orathai Loruthai, Sornkanok Vimolmangkang and Wannita Klinngam

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010006 - 30 Dec 2025

Nanoemulsions (NEs) offer a promising strategy for delivering lipophilic cannabidiol (CBD) to protect skin from particulate matter (PM)-induced damage. In this study, CBD-loaded oil-in-water NEs based on Brij^® O10 (polyoxyethylene (10) oleyl ether) and olive oil were prepared by the phase inversion [...] Read more.

Nanoemulsions (NEs) offer a promising strategy for delivering lipophilic cannabidiol (CBD) to protect skin from particulate matter (PM)-induced damage. In this study, CBD-loaded oil-in-water NEs based on Brij^® O10 (polyoxyethylene (10) oleyl ether) and olive oil were prepared by the phase inversion temperature (PIT) method and characterized. A 20% w/w Brij^® O10 formulation (B20) remained clear and stable for 30 days. CBD solubility was markedly enhanced in Brij^® O10 micelles and further increased in NEs, exceeding theoretical predictions and indicating synergistic solubilization in the oil–surfactant system. CBD incorporation lowered the PIT and induced nonlinear changes in droplet size with oil content. All formulations exhibited nanoscale droplets by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, moderately low zeta potentials consistent with nonionic steric stabilization, and maintained physical stability despite increased turbidity at higher oil levels. In a full-thickness human ex vivo skin model exposed to PM, both blank and CBD-loaded NEs reduced interleukin-6 (IL-6) and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in PM-exposed skin, with CBD-loaded NEs providing additional reductions and uniquely restoring procollagen type I C-peptide (PIP) relative to their blanks. Overall, PIT-based CBD NEs enhance CBD solubilization and protect human ex vivo skin from PM-induced inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation. Full article

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

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16 pages, 3130 KB

Open AccessArticle

Aqueous Precipitate of Methanolic Extract of Bergenia ciliata Leaves Demonstrate Photoirradiation-Mediated Dual Property of Inhibition and Enhancement of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesis

by Sourav Gurung, Monalisha Sarmin and Muddasarul Hoda

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010005 - 30 Dec 2025

Background: The aqueous and methanolic extracts (AE and ME) of Bergenia ciliata leaves have contradictory silver nanoparticles (AgNP) synthesis potential, influenced by photoirradiation. Method: In the current study, photoirradiation-mediated AgNP synthesis potential of two sub-extracts of ME, namely aqueous precipitated ME (PME) and [...] Read more.

Background: The aqueous and methanolic extracts (AE and ME) of Bergenia ciliata leaves have contradictory silver nanoparticles (AgNP) synthesis potential, influenced by photoirradiation. Method: In the current study, photoirradiation-mediated AgNP synthesis potential of two sub-extracts of ME, namely aqueous precipitated ME (PME) and aqueous dissolved ME (DME), were studied through comparison of their physicochemical properties. Results: In dark, DME demonstrated significant AgNP synthesis, whereas PME did not synthesize AgNPs. However, photoirradiation reversed the role of both the sub-extracts in nanoparticles synthesis. PME also demonstrated an inhibitory effect on AE-mediated AgNP synthesis in dark. GC-MS identified pyrogallol as the major reducing agent in both the sub-extracts. Photoirradiation significantly influenced the nanoparticle size and percent elemental composition of the AgNP. In dark, PME and DME produced AgNP of approx. 23.94 nm and 31.08 nm diameters, respectively, which significantly increased to 47.26 nm and 47.48 nm, respectively, on photoirradiation. Although no significant change in the percent silver composition was observed in PME-AgNP on photoirradiation (approx. 68%), DME demonstrated enhanced silver percent from approx. 58% to 72% on photoirradiation. Both DME- and PME-AgNPs were stable up to 15 days at 4 °C. Conclusions: PME has photoirradiation-mediated dual property of inhibition and enhancement of AgNPs synthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Thin Films and Nanostructures)

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18 pages, 3761 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biocompatible Carbon-Coated Ferrite Nanodot-Based Magnetoliposomes for Magnetic-Induced Multimodal Theragnostic

by Venkatakrishnan Kiran, Anbazhagan Thirumalai, Pazhani Durgadevi, Najim Akhtar, Alex Daniel Prabhu, Koyeli Girigoswami and Agnishwar Girigoswami

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010004 - 24 Dec 2025

Magnetoliposomes are hybrid nanostructures that integrate superparamagnetic ultrasmall carbon-coated ferrite nanodots (MNCDs) within liposomes (Lipo) composed of egg yolk-derived phospholipids and stabilized with an environmentally benign potato peel extract (PPE), enabling enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and optical imaging. The hydrothermally synthesized MNCDs [...] Read more.

Magnetoliposomes are hybrid nanostructures that integrate superparamagnetic ultrasmall carbon-coated ferrite nanodots (MNCDs) within liposomes (Lipo) composed of egg yolk-derived phospholipids and stabilized with an environmentally benign potato peel extract (PPE), enabling enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and optical imaging. The hydrothermally synthesized MNCDs were entrapped in liposomes prepared by thin-film hydration, and physicochemical properties were established at each stage of engineering. These magnetoresponsive vesicles (MNCDs+Lipo@PPE) serve as a triple-mode medical imaging contrast for T1 & T2-weighted MRI, while simultaneously enabling optical tracking of liposome degradation under an external magnetic field. They exhibited long-term enhanced fluorescence intensity and colloidal stability over 30 days, with hydrodynamic diameters ranging from 190 to 331 nm and an improved surface charge following PPE coating. In vitro cytotoxicity assays (MTT and Live/Dead staining) demonstrated over 87% cell viability for MNCDs+Lipo@PPE up to 2.7 mM concentration in A549 cells, indicating considerable toxicity. This multimodality engineering facilitates precise image-guided anticancer doxorubicin delivery and magnetic-responsive controlled release. The theoretical model shows that the release profile follows the Korsmeyer-Peppas profile. The externally applied magnetic field enhances the release by 1.4-fold. To demonstrate the anticancer efficiency in vitro with minimum off-target cytotoxicity, MTT and live/dead cell assay were performed against A549 cells. The reported study is a validated demonstration of magnetic-responsive nanocarrier systems for anticancer therapy and multimodal MRI and optical imaging-based diagnosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Colloidal Systems)

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2 pages, 138 KB

Open AccessBook Review

Book Review: Emulsions: From Single Interfaces to Applications; Miller, R., Guzmán-Solís, E., Eds.; CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL, USA, 2025; ISBN: 978-1-032-63610-8

by Saule B. Aidarova

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010003 - 23 Dec 2025

Volume 8 of the book series ‘Progress in Colloid and Interface Science’ is dedicated to emulsions and their building blocks, the adsorption layers at the surface of emulsion drops and the liquid films between the drops [...] Full article

23 pages, 3674 KB

Open AccessArticle

Structure–Function Effect of Heat Treatment on the Interfacial and Foaming Properties of Mixed Whey Protein Isolate/Persian Gum (Amygdalus scoparia Spach) Solutions

by Elham Ommat Mohammadi, Samira Yeganehzad, Regine von Klitzing, Reinhard Miller and Emanuel Schneck

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010002 - 22 Dec 2025

This study aimed to elucidate the impact of Persian Gum (PG; Amygdalus scoparia Spach) on the heat-induced aggregation and interfacial behavior of whey protein isolate (WPI). To achieve this, pure WPI and mixed WPI-PG systems were subjected to thermal treatments between 25 and [...] Read more.

This study aimed to elucidate the impact of Persian Gum (PG; Amygdalus scoparia Spach) on the heat-induced aggregation and interfacial behavior of whey protein isolate (WPI). To achieve this, pure WPI and mixed WPI-PG systems were subjected to thermal treatments between 25 and 85 °C, and their structural and functional changes were characterized using fluorescence spectroscopy, UV-vis absorption, turbidity and bulk viscosity measurements, interfacial shear and dilatational rheology, and foaming assessments. The presence of PG altered the aggregation pathway of WPI in a temperature-dependent manner, producing smaller, more soluble complexes with lower turbidity, particularly at higher temperatures. Both pure WPI and WPI-PG mixtures exhibited increased surface hydrophobicity upon heating; however, PG generally reduced the dilatational elastic modulus except at 85 °C, where the mixed system showed a higher modulus than WPI alone. In contrast, the interfacial shear modulus increased over time in all samples, with consistently higher values observed for WPI-PG mixtures at both 25 °C and 85 °C. Notably, three complementary methods were employed to evaluate foaming properties and interfacial behavior in this study, revealing that factors such as concentration, measurement time, and methodological approach strongly influence the observed responses, highlighting the complexity of interpreting protein-polysaccharide interactions. The ability of PG to modulate WPI unfolding and limit the formation of large aggregates during heating demonstrates a previously unreported mechanism by which PG tailors heat-induced protein network formation. These findings underscore the potential of Persian Gum as a functional polysaccharide for designing heat-treated food systems with controlled aggregation behavior and optimized interfacial performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Interfacial Properties)

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17 pages, 1098 KB

Open AccessArticle

Utilization of a Bioinformatic Approach to Identify Emulsifying Peptides Embedded in Brewers’ Spent Grain Proteins and Characterization of Their Emulsifying Properties

by Rasmus Kranold Mikkelsen, Ioanna Fragkaki, Simon Gregersen Echers, Naim Abdul-Khalek, Michael Toft Overgaard, Charlotte Jacobsen and Betül Yesiltas

Colloids Interfaces 2026, 10(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids10010001 - 19 Dec 2025

Brewers’ spent grain (BSG) represents the major byproduct of the brewing industry and remains largely underutilized. While BSG contains a rather high amount of protein, poor functional properties limit its use as a functional ingredient for foods without additional processing. In this work, [...] Read more.

Brewers’ spent grain (BSG) represents the major byproduct of the brewing industry and remains largely underutilized. While BSG contains a rather high amount of protein, poor functional properties limit its use as a functional ingredient for foods without additional processing. In this work, we investigate emulsifying peptides embedded in the major BSG proteins based on a mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis and subsequent bioinformatic prediction to explore the utilization of BSG as a raw material for the production of protein-based emulsifying ingredients. Forty-eight peptides were selected based on EmulsiPred score, amino acid sequence, and protein abundance for evaluation. All peptides effectively reduced the interfacial tension between oil–water, but only 15 could produce and stabilize emulsions with droplet sizes below 5 µm. Some peptides were able to produce stable emulsions with sub-micron droplet sizes, implying very promising emulsifying properties. This study demonstrated promising emulsifying properties of BSG peptides and suggested that the functionality could be predicted using bioinformatic tools. However, the used tool needs to be further optimized for higher success rate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Colloids: 4th Edition)

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11 pages, 1014 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate on Surface Properties of Dispersions of Oat Globulin Fibrils

by Boris A. Noskov, Alexey G. Bykov, Alexandra D. Khrebina, Evlaliya A. Levchuk, Giuseppe Loglio, Reinhard Miller and Egor A. Tsyganov

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060089 - 17 Dec 2025

The formation of mixed adsorption layers of amyloid fibrils of a plant protein, oat globulin (OG), and a strong polyelectrolyte, sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSS), at the liquid–gas interface was studied by measurements of the kinetic dependencies of surface tension, dynamic surface elasticity, and [...] Read more.

The formation of mixed adsorption layers of amyloid fibrils of a plant protein, oat globulin (OG), and a strong polyelectrolyte, sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSS), at the liquid–gas interface was studied by measurements of the kinetic dependencies of surface tension, dynamic surface elasticity, and ellipsometric angle. The micromorphology of the layers was determined by atomic force microscopy. A strong increase in the surface elasticity was discovered when both components had similar concentrations and formed a network of threadlike aggregates at the interface, thereby explaining the high foam stability in this concentration range. The sequential adsorption of PSS and OG resulted in the formation of thick mixed multilayers and the surface elasticity increased with the number of duplex layers. Full article

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

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8 pages, 1476 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reducing the Degradation of CsFAMA Perovskite Solar Cells

by Aleksandr Degterev, Aleksandr Tarasov, Mariya Degtereva, Marina Pavlova, Nikita Khorshev, Yevgeniy Levin, Ivan Mikhailov, Dmitriy Testov, Ivan Lamkin and Sergey Tarasov

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060088 - 15 Dec 2025

Triple-cation perovskite solar cells, such as Cs_0.05(FA_0.83MA_0.17)_0.95Pb(I_0.83Br_0.17)₃ (hereinafter referred to as CsFAMA) have high efficiency (>26%), but their stability is limited by phase segregation and defects at grain boundaries. In [...] Read more.

Triple-cation perovskite solar cells, such as Cs_0.05(FA_0.83MA_0.17)_0.95Pb(I_0.83Br_0.17)₃ (hereinafter referred to as CsFAMA) have high efficiency (>26%), but their stability is limited by phase segregation and defects at grain boundaries. In this work, the effect of formic acid (HCOOH) on suppressing the degradation of perovskite films is investigated. It is shown that the addition of HCOOH to the precursor solution reduces the size of colloidal particles by 90%, which contributes to the formation of highly homogeneous films with a photoluminescence intensity deviation of ≤3%. Structural analysis and dynamic light scattering measurements confirmed that HCOOH suppresses iodide oxidation and cation deprotonation, reducing the defect density. Aging tests (ISOS-D) demonstrated an increase in the T80 lifetime (time to 80% efficiency decline) from 158 to 320 days for the modified cells under ambient conditions at room temperature and 40% relative humidity. The obtained results indicate a key role of HCOOH in stabilizing CsFAMA perovskite by controlling colloidal dynamics and defect passivation, which opens up prospects for the creation of commercially viable PSCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Thin Films and Nanostructures)

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15 pages, 1688 KB

Open AccessArticle

Alginate-Based Edible Coating to Preserve the Quality and Extend the Shelf Life of Fresh-Cut Salad

by Martina Cofelice, Antonella De Leonardis, Francesco Letizia, Massimo Iorizzo, Francesca Cuomo and Francesco Lopez

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060087 - 12 Dec 2025

The food industry is actively seeking solutions to reduce or replace conventional petroleum-based plastic packaging and, at the same time, to identify strategies that limit the rapid deterioration of fresh products. In this context, the present study evaluated the effectiveness of an edible [...] Read more.

The food industry is actively seeking solutions to reduce or replace conventional petroleum-based plastic packaging and, at the same time, to identify strategies that limit the rapid deterioration of fresh products. In this context, the present study evaluated the effectiveness of an edible emulsion coating based on lemongrass essential oil and alginate in delaying the spoilage of Lactuca sativa salad. Following rheological investigation, 1% alginate emulsion was selected as the coating formulation and applied by spraying onto fresh-cut lettuce, and the effect of the treatment was monitored throughout storage. Fresh-cut Lactuca sativa salad was assessed in terms of weight loss, pH, titratable acidity, visual appearance, sensory analysis, and microbiological contamination. Measurements of weight loss, pH, and titratable acidity indicated the lack of significant differences between coated and uncoated salads leaves. However, coated samples exhibited improved quality in the first 8 days of storage, particularly with evidence of a reduction in psychrotrophic and mesophilic bacteria. The proposed coating also helped to preserve the visual appearance of the leaves, with no visible browning during storage, and the sensory evaluation results were encouraging. Overall, these findings suggest that the technology investigated is promising for supporting the use of emulsion-based edible coatings to reduce the rapid spoilage of Lactuca sativa salad during storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Colloids: 4th Edition)

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28 pages, 7691 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Study of the Efficiency of Low-Concentration Nanoemulsions with Diesel Fuel for Enhanced Oil Recovery

by Andrey Minakov, Vladimir Zhigarev, Angelica Skorobogatova, Dmitriy Guzei, Andrey Pryazhnikov, Maxim Pryazhnikov, Sergey Lubenets and Roman Vaganov

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060086 - 11 Dec 2025

This article presents the results of experimental studies examining the effectiveness of low-concentration nanoemulsions for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The maximum volume concentration of diesel fuel in the emulsions did not exceed 1% by volume. The volume concentration of the emulsifier ranged from [...] Read more.

This article presents the results of experimental studies examining the effectiveness of low-concentration nanoemulsions for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The maximum volume concentration of diesel fuel in the emulsions did not exceed 1% by volume. The volume concentration of the emulsifier ranged from 0.05% to 0.4%. A method for preparing stable nanoemulsions was developed. The colloidal stability, viscosity, interfacial tension, wettability, and capillary imbibition rate of low-concentration nanoemulsions were studied. Filtration experiments were conducted to study oil displacement on microfluidic chips simulating a porous medium and core samples. This is the first systematic study of the properties of nanoemulsions containing diesel fuel. It was demonstrated that the developed emulsions have high potential for EOR. It was shown that increasing the emulsifier concentration reduces the contact angle from 35 to 16 degrees and halves the surface tension coefficient. Experiments studying the capillary imbibition of oil-saturated cores with nanoemulsions also confirmed their ability to reduce interfacial tension and improve rock wettability. Oil displacement efficiency during capillary imbibition increases by 22%. Filter tests on microfluidic chips and core samples confirmed the high efficiency of the developed nanoemulsions. Increasing the emulsifier concentration in the emulsion to 0.4% increases the displacement efficiency from 32% for water displacement to 57% for nanoemulsion displacement. Core tests showed that additional injection of nanoemulsions significantly increases the oil displacement efficiency by 10–14%, depending on the emulsifier concentration in the nanoemulsion. It was also established that the use of an aqueous solution of an emulsifier without a hydrocarbon phase does not provide such a significant increase in the displacement coefficient as in the emulsion composition. Full article

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

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10 pages, 2193 KB

Open AccessArticle

Atomically Dispersed Pt–Sn Nanocluster Catalysts for Enhanced Toluene Hydrogenation in LOHC Systems

by Jun Wang, Hao Lin, Qizhong Chan, Yaohong Zhao and Xiaohui He

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060085 - 10 Dec 2025

Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) are promising materials for safe, reversible, and high-density hydrogen storage. Atomically dispersed bimetallic Pt–Sn nanocluster catalysts supported on TiO₂ (Pt–Sn/TiO₂) were developed to enhance the hydrogenation step in the toluene-methylcyclohexane cycle, a model LOHC system. [...] Read more.

Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) are promising materials for safe, reversible, and high-density hydrogen storage. Atomically dispersed bimetallic Pt–Sn nanocluster catalysts supported on TiO₂ (Pt–Sn/TiO₂) were developed to enhance the hydrogenation step in the toluene-methylcyclohexane cycle, a model LOHC system. Compared with monometallic Pt/TiO₂ and Sn/TiO₂, Pt–Sn/TiO₂ exhibited superior hydrogenation performance. Mechanistic studies, including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, kinetic analysis, and H₂-D₂ exchange experiments, revealed that Sn incorporation modulates the electronic structure of Pt, enhancing H₂ activation and spillover. These findings provide insights into the rational design of atomically dispersed bimetallic nanocluster catalysts for efficient and durable hydrogen storage in LOHC-based systems. Full article

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

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33 pages, 4694 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Hydrogels as Reversible Adhesives: A Review on Sustainable Design Strategies and Future Prospects

by Monica Tonelli and Massimo Bonini

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060084 - 8 Dec 2025

Reversible adhesives enable temporary yet robust bonding between surfaces, allowing controlled detachment without structural or interfacial damage. This capability is gaining increasing recognition as a crucial requirement for sustainable technologies, where repairability, reusability, and minimal waste are key objectives. Among the diverse strategies [...] Read more.

Reversible adhesives enable temporary yet robust bonding between surfaces, allowing controlled detachment without structural or interfacial damage. This capability is gaining increasing recognition as a crucial requirement for sustainable technologies, where repairability, reusability, and minimal waste are key objectives. Among the diverse strategies explored for reversible adhesion (including supramolecular assemblies, bioinspired dry adhesives, and stimuli-responsive polymers), hydrogel-based systems have emerged as particularly versatile candidates due to their tunable mechanics, elasticity, and intrinsic biocompatibility. Recent studies highlight the use of renewable or biodegradable polymers to develop sustainable, water-rich hydrogel networks with controllable adhesive properties, minimizing environmental impact while maintaining performance. Despite these advances, significant challenges still hinder full implementation: biopolymer-based systems such as chitosan or starch often exhibit strong but poorly controllable adhesion, compromising reversibility and reusability. This review provides a comprehensive overview of strategies for developing hydrogel-based reversible adhesives, focusing on sustainable material selection, molecular design principles, and the underlying mechanisms of bonding and debonding. Furthermore, characterization methodologies, from conventional mechanical testing to surface-sensitive and dynamic techniques, are discussed in detail to establish structure–property–function relationships. Finally, emerging directions and application opportunities are outlined, offering a framework for the rational design of next-generation, sustainable adhesive systems. Full article

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

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13 pages, 4516 KB

Open AccessArticle

Onset of Tectomeric Self-Assemblies in Aqueous Solutions of Three-Antennary Oligoglycines

by Anna Y. Gyurova, Ljubomir Nikolov and Elena Mileva

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060083 - 4 Dec 2025

A detailed investigation of the structure–property relationships of three-antennary oligoglycines in aqueous solutions is performed. Two representatives of these substances are investigated: CH₃C(-CH₂-NH-Gly₅)₃ and CH₃C(-CH₂-NH-Gly₇)₃. The aim is [...] Read more.

A detailed investigation of the structure–property relationships of three-antennary oligoglycines in aqueous solutions is performed. Two representatives of these substances are investigated: CH₃C(-CH₂-NH-Gly₅)₃ and CH₃C(-CH₂-NH-Gly₇)₃. The aim is to clarify the effect of molecular peculiarities and the concentration of the oligoglycines on bulk-solution performance and on adsorption-layer properties at the solution–air interface. This study is focused on the clarification of the conditions for the onset of bulk and interfacial supramolecular species in the aqueous environment. The presence of oligoglycine antennae attached to a common carbon-atom center allows the formation of highly coordinated intra- and intermolecular ‘click-clack’ interactions and presumes the possibility for the development of extended H-bonded networks, e.g., in the form of Polyglycine II motifs. A combined study protocol, including dynamic light scattering, profile analysis tensiometry, and microscopic thin-liquid-film techniques, is applied. The results allow the drawing of essential conclusions about the possible coupling mechanism of bulk and interfacial phenomena. The outcomes give grounds to advance the following hypothesis: due to the synchronized action of noncovalent interactions, three types of tectomeric structures may appear—dimers, gel-like elements, and disk-like supramolecular entities. Options for fine-tuning of the tectomer formation in aqueous solutions are presented, and possible application routes are outlined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soft Matter Interfaces and Structures)

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17 pages, 4633 KB

Open AccessArticle

Systematic Study of Counterion Effects and NaCl-Induced Modulation of Foam Performance in Lauroyl Glutamate Surfactants

by Tianyu Cao and Fu Han

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(6), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9060082 - 3 Dec 2025

This study systematically compares how three counterions (Na⁺, K⁺, NH₄⁺) regulate the interfacial properties, foaming behavior, and foam stability of lauroyl glutamate (LG) surfactants, and further examines how added NaCl modifies these properties in the sodium [...] Read more.

This study systematically compares how three counterions (Na⁺, K⁺, NH₄⁺) regulate the interfacial properties, foaming behavior, and foam stability of lauroyl glutamate (LG) surfactants, and further examines how added NaCl modifies these properties in the sodium salt (SLG). The three counterions induce only slight variations in surface activity and foam generation. Their influence is more evident in foam stability, with the sodium salt exhibiting enhanced stability across a wider concentration range. For SLG, NaCl addition markedly lowers the critical micelle concentration and induces concentration-dependent changes in foaming behavior: 1% NaCl enhances foam generation, while higher salt levels diminish this effect. Foam stability is strongly affected in the sub-cmc regime, with 3% NaCl producing the most stable foams. Surfactant concentration and salt content are the main factors affecting foam performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Colloidal Systems)

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