A mixture in which solid particles are temporarily dispersed in a fluid but will eventually settle due to gravity. Unlike colloids, suspended particles are large enough to be seen and filtered. The Tyndall effect distinguishes colloids from true solutions but is not definitive for suspensions.
Properties & Characteristics
A suspension is a heterogeneous mixture in which finely divided solid particles are dispersed throughout a liquid medium but are not dissolved. The dispersed particles are visible or nearly visible and will settle over time under gravity. Unlike colloids, suspension particles can be separated by simple filtration. Suspensions are characterised by their particle size (>1 μm), opacity, and instability on standing.
Uses & Applications
Suspensions are used in pharmaceutical formulations such as antacids and oral antibiotics. Many paints, slurries in mining and water treatment, and drilling muds are practical suspensions. Agricultural pesticide sprays are applied as aqueous suspensions.
Safety Information
Pharmaceutical suspensions must be well shaken before use to ensure uniform dosing. Inhalation of fine suspended particles is a respiratory hazard. Some suspension ingredients may be toxic.
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
A mixture in which solid particles are temporarily dispersed in a fluid but will eventually settle due to gravity. Unlike colloids, suspended particles are large enough to be seen and filtered. The Tyndall effect distinguishes colloids from true solutions but is not definitive for suspensions.
Suspensions are used in pharmaceutical formulations such as antacids and oral antibiotics. Many paints, slurries in mining and water treatment, and drilling muds are practical suspensions. Agricultural pesticide sprays are applied as aqueous suspensions.
Pharmaceutical suspensions must be well shaken before use to ensure uniform dosing. Inhalation of fine suspended particles is a respiratory hazard. Some suspension ingredients may be toxic.
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature,
CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA,
and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified
professionals before handling chemicals.
