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"Amphiphilic" ionic liquid in a mixture of nonionic liquids: theoretical study
Artem A Aerov1, Alexei R Khokhlov, Igor I Potemkin
1Physics Department, Moscow State University, Moscow 119992, Russian Federation. aerov@polly.phys.msu.ru
The Journal of Physical Chemistry. B
|November 5, 2010
Summary
Ionic liquids (ILs) act as surfactants, reducing interfacial tension in incompatible nonionic systems. A theoretical model shows ILs form thick double electrostatic layers at phase boundaries, enhancing their surfactant properties.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Two-phase systems of incompatible nonionic components (A and B) exhibit interfacial tension.
- Ionic liquids (ILs) are salts with unique properties, including potential surfactant capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of ionic liquids (ILs) as surfactants in a two-phase system of incompatible nonionic components.
- To theoretically describe the formation and properties of the interface between two immiscible phases in the presence of an IL.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a Flory-Huggins type theoretical approach.
- Employing numerical calculations to explore a wide range of IL concentrations.
- Conducting analytical investigations for low IL concentration regimes.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the formation of a thick double electrostatic layer (hundreds of molecules) by the IL at the phase boundary.
- Showed that the IL significantly reduces the interfacial tension compared to a system without IL.
- Confirmed agreement between numerical and analytical results across various IL concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Ionic liquids effectively act as surfactants in nonionic two-phase systems.
- The formation of a substantial electrostatic layer is key to the IL's interfacial activity.
- The theoretical model accurately predicts IL behavior as a surfactant in such systems.
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