Surfactant mediated charging of polymer particles in a nonpolar liquid

► Charging of polymer particles was observed in decane solutions of AOT and Span 85. ► Acid-base parameters were determined from interfacial tension and contact angles. ► Acid-base interaction with the surfactant is one likely source of surface charge. ► Ionized surfactant at the particle surface contributes to charge in AOT/decane. ► Surface dissociation in AOT/decane is likely promoted by residual water.