Characterization of non-linear behaviour of an animal membrane using electro-kinetic studies.

Electro-kinetic studies of water, aqueous solutions of urea, thiourea, glucose, creatinine and urine solution across urinary bladder membranes of goat have been used to explain non-linear behaviour. It has been found that fluxes are non-linearly related with forces. The structure of the membrane is a decisive factor when the range of driving forces is not too high. Stability of the steady state has also been examined and has been found to remain quite stable even in non-linear regions. The results have been examined using the methodology of non-equilibrium thermodynamics.