Zeta Potential

Zeta potential (also known as the electrokinetic potential) is a measure of the “effective” electric charge on the nanoparticle surface, and quantifies the charge stability of colloidal nanoparticles. 

The magnitude of the zeta potential provides information about particle stability, with particles with higher magnitude potentials exhibiting increased electrostatic repulsion and therefore increased stability.

• 0-5 mV: Particles tend to agglomerate, aggregate, or flocculate
• 5-20 mV: Particles are minimally stable
• 20-40 mV: Particles are moderately stable
• 40+ mV: Particles are highly stable

It is important to consider that the magnitude of the charge on the nanoparticle surface depends on the solution pH. In fact, the surface charge can be reduced to zero at a specific pH referred to as the isoelectric point.  To learn more about zeta potential, please visit our Knowledge Base.

At nanoComposix, zeta potential measurements are performed using a Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZS instrument equipped with a HeNe laser operating at 632.8 nm and a scattering detector at 173 degrees.

To take advantage of our Zeta Potential Service please contact us at service@nanocomposix.com.  A nanoComposix representative will contact you within 1 business day to discuss your needs, provide suggestions, and answer your questions.