Colloid
| Also Known As | Colloidal dispersion, colloidal system, colloidal suspension, colloidal solution |
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What is Colloid?
A colloid (colloidal dispersion) is a mixture in which particles of one substance (1–1000 nm in size) are dispersed throughout another but not dissolved. Colloids differ from true solutions (smaller particles) and suspensions (larger particles that settle). Examples include milk (fat in water), fog (water droplets in air), and smoke (solid particles in air). Colloids scatter light (Tyndall effect).
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A colloid (colloidal dispersion) is a mixture in which particles of one substance (1–1000 nm in size) are dispersed throughout another but not dissolved. Colloids differ from true solutions (smaller particles) and suspensions (larger particles that settle). Examples include milk (fat in water), fog (water droplets in air), and smoke (solid particles in air). Colloids scatter light (Tyndall effect).
Colloids are used in food science (milk, mayonnaise, ice cream), pharmaceuticals (drug delivery nanoparticles), cosmetics (creams, lotions), paints, inks, and industrial processes (wastewater coagulation). Gold colloids are used in lateral flow immunoassays and as catalysts.
Airborne colloidal particles (aerosols, nano-aerosols) are respiratory hazards; engineered nanoparticles may penetrate lung tissue. Colloidal solutions of toxic heavy metals (silver, gold, titanium nanoparticles) require nanomaterial safety protocols and environmental assessment.