Tangential-force model for interactions between bonded colloidal particles

Recently, Pantina and Furst [Phys. Rev. Lett. 94, 138301 (2005)] experimentally demonstrated the existence of tangential forces between bonded colloidal particles and the capability of these bonds to supporting bending moments. We introduce a model to be used in computer simulations that describes these tangential interactions. We show how the model parameters can be determined from experimental data. Simulations using the model are in agreement to the measurement by Pantina and Furst. Application of the model to an aggregate with fractal structure leads to more realistic behavior than using classical approaches only.