Suspensie

Suspensie is a term used in several fields to describe a system in which a dispersed phase is distributed within another substance without dissolving. In general, a suspension is a heterogeneous mixture in which solid particles are dispersed in a liquid (or, less commonly, a gas) and can settle out over time.

In chemistry and pharmaceutics, a suspension consists of solid particles dispersed in a liquid medium. The particles are typically larger than those in a true solution, often exceeding about 1 micrometer, and the mixture is typically cloudy or opaque. Because of density differences, the solid particles tend to sediment unless the suspension is kept in motion or stabilized. Stability is enhanced with emulsifying or stabilizing agents, thickeners, or polymers that prevent rapid sedimentation or aggregation. A key practical feature is that suspensions must be shaken or stirred before use to redisperse the solids, and they may require specific storage conditions and expiration dates. In pharmaceuticals, suspensions are common dosage forms for drugs with poor water solubility or those that are intended for pediatric or other specific populations.

In mechanical engineering, the term refers to the vehicle suspension system, which comprises springs and dampers designed to absorb irregularities in the road surface. The suspension helps maintain tire contact, improves ride comfort, and influences handling. Common arrangements include coil springs, leaf springs, and various damper designs, with many modern vehicles using independent suspension layouts and, in some cases, active or semi-active systems.

Overall, suspensie encompasses both a scientific concept of dispersed matter and a practical engineering system, depending on the context.