Aggregation of colloidal particles modeled as a dynamical process.

Aggregation kinetics of sonicated phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) vesicles in NaCl indicate that the process is fully reversible and dynamical, involving the rapid formation and dispersal of aggregates. Accordingly, the general mass action kinetic equations are analyzed with respect to the equilibrium state and the formation of higher order aggregates. For a general class of systems, the values for the mass average aggregate size at equilibrium are obtained from simple closed-form expressions. It is shown that an analysis of the aggregation equilibrium will yield estimates for the potential energy well that holds the aggregates together. A fit to the experimental data for kinetics of Na+-induced aggregation of the vesicles has been achieved by employing mass action kinetic equations that include the dissociation reactions. The threshold of NaCl concentration required for aggregation involves the clear distinction between the rate and extent of aggregation.