Abstract. Layer-by-layer structures (e.g. polyelectrolyte multilayers and protein-polyelectrolyte multilayers) play a very important role in surface modification processes. In the present study, electrokinetic measurements were applied for the investigation of poly(allylamine hydrochloride)/poly(sodium 4-styrenesulphonate) (PAH/PSS) multilayer formation, with PAH being a terminal layer, as a function of pH. Additionally, the effect of supporting electrolyte (KCl) concentration on multilayer formation was tested. Silica particles were used as the solid substrate. Furthermore, the adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA) on previously formed multilayer was examined as a function of pH and BSA concentration. It was confirmed that the electrokinetic measurements are suitable for monitoring the formation of various multilayers. In all investigated systems the process of multilayer formation was found to depend on conditions (ionic strength and pH) under which the multilayer was formed. Moreover, in the case of BSA, the adsorption on previously formed multilayer BSA concentration also plays a significant role. (doi: 10.5562/cca1822)