Polanyi's theory has historical significance whose work has been used a foundation for other models, such as the theory of volume filling micropores (TVFM) and the Dubinin–Radushkevich theory.
Other research have been performed loosely involving the potential theory of Polanyi such as the capillary condensation phenomenon discovered by Zsigmondy. Unlike Poylanis theory which involves a flat surface, Zsigmondys research involves a porous structure like silica materials. His research proved that condensation of vapors can occur in narrow pores below the standard saturated vapour pressure.