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Analytical solution for diffusiophoretic mobility of soft particles considering finite ion size effect
Rahul Kumar Singh1, Partha Sarathi Majee1, Hiroyuki Ohshima2
1Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Department of Mathematics, Ranchi 835215, Jharkhand, India.
Physical Review. E
|May 16, 2026
Summary
This study reveals how ion steric exclusion and partitioning influence soft particle movement. Core hydrophobicity amplifies these effects, impacting diffusiophoresis, especially at higher particle charges.
Area of Science:
- Soft matter physics
- Colloid science
- Physical chemistry
Background:
- Diffusiophoresis drives particle motion via electrolyte gradients.
- Core-shell particles with polyelectrolyte layers (PEL) are relevant in various applications.
- Ion steric exclusion and partitioning effects are crucial for accurate modeling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically investigate the diffusiophoretic motion of core-shell soft particles.
- To incorporate ion steric exclusion and ion partitioning effects.
- To analyze the influence of core hydrophobicity and PEL permeability.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical modeling using a planar plate approximation.
- Derivation of closed-form analytical solutions for diffusiophoretic mobility.
- Analysis of electrokinetic parameters and asymptotic limits.
Main Results:
- A closed-form solution for diffusiophoretic mobility was derived, accounting for finite ion size.
- Ion steric and partitioning effects significantly impact mobility, especially with a hydrophobic core.
- These effects are amplified by core hydrophobicity and ion partitioning, enhancing effective particle charge.
Conclusions:
- Ion steric and partitioning effects are significant for diffusiophoresis, particularly at high particle charges and with hydrophobic cores.
- PEL permeability modulates the influence of these effects; low permeability diminishes their impact.
- The findings provide insights into the electrokinetic behavior of complex soft particles.
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