Impact of metallic ions on electrohydrodynamics of soft colloidal polysaccharides

► We characterize the soft and water permeable nature of carboxymethyldextran particle. ► We analyze the divalent cations (Cd, Ca) complex formation with the soft CMD particle. ► Shrinking of the coiled macromolecules occurs in the presence of divalent cations. ► Cation's complexation leads to a permeability loss of the colloidal ligand and a stiffening of polymer segments.