A model of compression isotherms for analyzing particle layers

• Model of compression isotherms of particle films formed at the interfaces.
• The model allows estimating the number of the layers and the size of aggregates.
• Impact of water-particle and particle–particle interaction on the film structure.

A model, which allows analyzing compression isotherms of mono- and multi layered films formed with particles at the air–water or oil–water interface is here proposed. The number of contacts established between particles in the layer was linked to surface pressure. The parameters used in the model permit calculating the energy of layer formation, and area per particle in the mono- or multi-layered films. These data reflect particle–particle and particle-subphase interaction and, consequently, particle organization in the film.The model was tested with micrometric glass beads and used for calculating the diameters of particles formed at the interface. The excellent representation of the experimental compression isotherms shows that the model can be used for constructing films with defined properties.

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