Export citation

Export citation

Choose format for download:

Download Citation

    Impact of initial charge distributions on the kinetics of charged particle coagulation

    Gustavo Castillo1,* and Nicolás Mujica2

    • 1Instituto de Ciencias de la Ingeniería, Universidad de O'Higgins, Avenida Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 611, Rancagua, Chile
    • 2Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Físicas y Matemáticas, Universidad de Chile, Avenida Blanco Encalada 2008, Santiago, Chile

    • *Contact author: gustavo.castillo@uoh.cl

    Phys. Rev. E 113, 045418 – Published 21 April, 2026

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/17ht-66m5

    Abstract

    We investigate the kinetics of particle aggregation within the framework of the Smoluchowski coagulation equation, extending it to account for electrostatic interactions among charged clusters. Using a stochastic Monte Carlo implementation, we examine how different charge distributions and net system charge affect cluster growth dynamics. Electrostatic interactions are incorporated directly into the classical Brownian collision kernel, yielding charge-dependent modifications of the collision rates that may either enhance or suppress aggregation depending on the signs and magnitudes of the interacting charges. Our simulations reveal distinct regimes of growth: At intermediate times, charge heterogeneity accelerates or delays aggregation depending on the initial underlying charge distribution, while at long times the system tends toward quasistationary states whose properties depend on the net charge. Comparisons between Gaussian and Cauchy-Lorentz initial charge statistics highlight the role of heavy-tailed distributions in promoting faster cluster growth. These findings contribute to a unified understanding of coagulation kinetics in charged particulate systems, with potential implications for aerosol and astrophysical coagulation processes, volcanic ash aggregation, and clustering in industrial fluidized granular beds.

    Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

    Authorization Required

    We need you to provide your credentials before accessing this content.

    References (Subscription Required)

    Outline

    Information

    Sign In to Your Journals Account

    Filter

    Filter

    Article Lookup

    Enter a citation