Abstract
Organogelators and hydrogelators which belong to low-molecular-weight gelators (LMWGs) have attracted considerable attention due to various practical applications. Whether organogelators or hydrogelators, they can congeal single oil or water phase. However, gelators capable of gelation at oil/water interface have thus far remained unexplored. Herein, we report a class of surface-active ionic liquids (SAILs) based on dimethylcyclohexylamine and fatty acids. They can form high-strength gels at the oil/water interface instead of in single oil or water phase. These molecules spontaneously aggregate at oil/water interface, and then self-assemble into lamellar liquid crystalline structure, as evident from POM and SAXS analysis. Rheology analysis shows that these gels are of very high viscosity, strength and stability. These unique characters make these SAILs can effectively block the oil–water interface, which has potential application in oilfield development or oil leaks from underwater tubes.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
