Hansen's method as a generalization of the Gibbs method in the theory of electrocapillarity

The thermodynamic theory of capillary phenomena at the interface between two immiscible liquids is discussed. The methods of Gibbs, Guggenheim, and Hansen are analyzed. The reference systems of Gibbs and Hansen are described. An alternative geometric interpretation of the Gibbs method is given. A symmetric form of the adsorption equation was obtained, and the connection between the surface excesses investigated. Frumkin's interpretation of surface excesses is discussed. The specific volume and entropy of interface formation in multicomponent systems are described. Interpretational difficulties of Hansen's method are discussed. Hansen's method is generalized to curved surfaces of any shape. Hansen's approach which extends and generalizes the Gibb's method yields a better understanding of the nature of interfacial phenomena, and offers convenient tools for their description.