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Reverse Micelle Formation Using a Sodium Di(n-Octyl) Phosphinate Surfactant
1Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B2, Canada
Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
|September 18, 1999
Summary
This study synthesized sodium di(n-octyl) phosphinate as a surfactant to create reverse micelles. Optimal water solubilization in organic solvents was achieved using specific cosurfactant ratios, revealing critical parameters for micelle formation.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Colloid and Surface Science
- Surfactant Chemistry
Background:
- Reverse micelles are crucial for solubilizing water in organic solvents.
- Sodium di(n-octyl) phosphinate is a surfactant capable of forming these structures.
- Understanding the role of cosurfactants is key to controlling micelle properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize sodium di(n-octyl) phosphinate for reverse micelle formation.
- To investigate the effect of two cosurfactants (decanol and di(n-octyl) phosphinic acid) on water solubilization.
- To determine the optimal conditions for maximum water uptake in a Winsor II system.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis and purification of sodium di(n-octyl) phosphinate.
- Formation of reverse micelles in isooctane using the contact method.
- Adjustment of ionic strength with sodium chloride.
- Systematic variation of cosurfactant (decanol, di(n-octyl) phosphinic acid) to surfactant mole ratios.
Main Results:
- A minimum cosurfactant to surfactant mole ratio was necessary for reverse micelle formation and water solubilization.
- Maximum water uptake occurred at this minimum ratio, with no uptake above a specific maximum ratio.
- The maximum mole ratio for di(n-octyl) phosphinic acid was independent of concentration, while for decanol, it decreased with increasing concentration.
- Increased cosurfactant concentration led to enhanced maximum water uptake.
Conclusions:
- Sodium di(n-octyl) phosphinate effectively forms reverse micelles.
- The choice and concentration of cosurfactant significantly influence water solubilization capacity.
- Specific mole ratios of cosurfactant to surfactant are critical for optimizing Winsor II systems.
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