Dynamics of Counterion Condensation

Abstract

Using a generalization of the Poisson-Boltzmann equation, dynamics of counterion condensation is studied. For a single charged plate in the presence of counterions, it is shown that the approach to equilibrium is diffusive. In the far from equilibrium case of a moving charged plate, a dynamical counterion condensation transition occurs at a critical velocity. The complex dynamic behavior of the counterion cloud is shown to lead to a novel nonlinear force-velocity relation for the moving plate.