Complexation between sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC) and ellipsoidal particles of oppositely charged beta-FeOOH is studied using electric light scattering and electrophoresis. We focus on the complex behavior for overcharging of the particle surface. In this case, the fraction of condensed counterions on NaCMC is found to remain unchanged during polymer adsorption onto a weakly charged particle surface. Using the theory of Sens and Joanny, we evaluate the fraction of condensed counterions and compare it with results for nonadsorbed NaCMC. The polarization of condensed counterions along the chain of the adsorbed macromolecule is proved to create the electro-optical effect in suspensions stabilized by NaCMC adsorption. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.