Laminar movement of concentrated kaolin pulps is difficult without the use of dispersing agents. The aim of this work was to contribute to a better understanding of the fundamental aspects of kaolin pulp rheology using colloidal chemistry theory. Zeta potential and rheology were evaluated with and without a dispersant as a function of pH and dispersant concentration. Total interparticle interaction energy was calculated by means of DLVO theory. Finally, rheological data was coordinated with the calculated data from DLVO theory. It was concluded that DLVO theory was qualitatively related to the rheological behaviour of kaolin pulps. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.