An effective method to stabilize a suspension involves the use of additives capable of modulating electrostatic repulsion between particles through a direct action on the electrical double layer.

These chemical agents, generally electrolytes, increase the ion concentration in the system, affecting the characteristics of the double layer and helping to stabilize the suspension under specific conditions.

The ELECTRICAL DOUBLE LAYER is a structure formed at the interface between a solid phase and a fluid, characterized by a non-uniform distribution of electric charges. It consists of two main areas: an inner layer, where adsorbed ions are bound to the solid surface, and a diffuse layer, composed of free ions distributed in the fluid under the influence of electric and thermal forces.

The stabilization of suspensions is due to the electrostatic repulsion generated between particles, which prevents their approach and subsequent aggregation. The double layer plays a crucial role in maintaining particle dispersion and preventing agglomeration by regulating this repulsion through the thickness and density of the charge distribution.

The presence of multivalent ions, such as calcium and magnesium, can compress the electrical double layer, reducing its thickness. This leads to a decrease in the repulsive force between particles, favoring aggregation phenomena. When particles come close and form agglomerates, the system may experience an increase in viscosity or become unstable.