APPLICATION OF THE MPB THEORY TO THE ANALYSIS OF THE ION-FREE LAYER THICKNESS

The concept of ion-free layer thickness is examined on the basis of co ntemporary theories of the electrical double layer. A comparison betwe en surface excesses derived from Modified Poisson-Boltzmann (MPB and U RMPB) and mean field (GC and UDCA) theories is performed. The influenc e of unequal distances of closest approach for cations and anions in t he analysis of experimental surface excesses is cancelled to a signifi cant extent by inclusion of self-atmosphere and exclusion volume effec ts. An application is made to the mercury/aqueous LiCl, NaCl and KCl i nterfaces. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd