Molecular forces: in colloid science, complex fluids and living matter

The enabling discipline of solutions, physical, surface and colloid chemistry is seriously flawed. It is not useful in the biochemical, chemical engineering sciences and in nanotechnologies. This shows up practically in its failure to handle ubiquitous Hofmeister-specific ion effects, and effects of dissolved atmospheric gas. The problems exist even for universally concepts like pH and buffers. The reasons for these difficulties are now clearer. Further basic challenges remaining for the new theories, that are on the right track, will be tackled. These developments will allow better predictability in applications.