Gemini surfactant based-organomontmorillonites: preparation, characterization and application in pickering emulsion

Abstract

To investigate the efficiency of gemini surfactant based organoclays (OMts) for the stabilization of O/W emulsions, different ammonium gemini surfactants with semi-rigid hydrophobic chains and spacer lengths were used for the modification of sodium montmorillionite (Mt). The composition and morphology of the resulting organoclays were characterized by Fourier transform infraredspectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The results showed that these surfactants are more efficient than conventional surfactants and hydrocarbon type gemini surfactant analogous in the modification of Mt. An important increase of the d-spacing values was obtained particularly for long hydrocarbon chains and spacers. The OMt’s thermal properties and hydrophobicity were also governed by the structure of surfactants. The stabilizing behavior of gemini surfactants, OMt as well as surfactant/OMt mixtures in oil/water (1:1, v/v) emulsions was investigated by macroscopic and microscopic morphological observations. Better stabilization was achieved by G(10-4-10) surfactant bearing decyl chains and OMts with high surfactant concentration.