Polarization of non-equilibrium double layer and agglomeration of polyelectrolyte balls

Non-equilibrium polarizability of a polyelectrolyte ball is calculated in the framework of a quasi-onedimensional model, taking into account the concentration polarization phenomenon. This non-equilibrium polarizability is shown to be proportional to the volume of a polyball and to have a negative sign. Based on these results, the available experimental data on the aggregation phenomena in DNA solutions are considered in terms of the electric field induced phase separation. Numerical estimates for the critical electric field strength necessary for the aggregation to take place and the frequency range where it is observed are in a reasonable agreement with experiment. In the framework of this model, the internal circulations observed in the DNA aggregates are interpreted as being due to the spontaneous rotation of polyelectrolyte balls with a negative polarizability.