Critical evaluation of dipolar, acid-base and charge interactions II. Charge exchange within electrolytes and electron exchange with semiconductors

The properties of particle suspensions (sols) are determined by electron exchange with semiconductors and by ion interaction with metal oxides. For a successful electron transfer the Fermi energy of semiconductors must match with the Fermi energy of reduction reactions of electrolyte ions. Fermi energy may be converted to the standard reduction potential of electrochemical cells. Electron (pe) and proton (pH) activities are the most appropriate properties for particle suspensions. They may also be converted to standard reduction potential and Fermi energy of electrolytes ions. Polarization of water, specific and indifferent ion interaction with the charged interface influence macroscopic properties such as wetting, electrophoretic mobility, suspension stability and viscosity.50