Thermodynamics of water–biopolymer interactions: Irreversible sorption by a single, uniform sorbent phase

Abstract

Abstract Sorption isotherms of water vapor by solid biopolymers are necessary for the determination of thermodynamic quantities for water–biopolymer interactions. Such isotherms are generally irreversible, so equilibrium thermodynamics may not be applicable. General relationships are derived for thermodynamic quantities of sorption when the sorbent is a single uniform phase. In general, use of the Clausius–Clapeyron equation allows correct determination of differential entropies of sorption. However, calorimetric data are also necessary for the correct determination of other thermodynamic quantities. The single uniform phase model appears more useful than a domain model in explaining the hysteresis seen in water–biopolymer sorption isotherms.