JR 400–NaAOT interaction: a detailed thermodynamic study of polymer–surfactant interaction bearing opposite charges

Abstract

The present study entails interaction between the cationic polymer N,N-dimethylhydroxyethyl cellulose (JR 400) and the double-tailed anionic surfactant Na-bis-2-ethyhexylsulphosuccinate (NaAOT). This oppositely charged polymer and surfactant are expected to cause coacervation and precipitation; hence, we have observed formation of thick solution similar to diluted gel at [JR 400] ~ 0.01 and 0.10 % w/v in aqueous solution. Viscometry, conductometry, tensiometry, and microcalorimetry techniques are used to monitor the interaction process. The results are explained in the light of both intrachain and interchain linking by way of NaAOT reverse micelle formation. Adsorption of NaAOT monomers onto the charged side chains of the polymer shields interchain electrostatic repulsion, leading to the formation of hydrophobic microdomains and microscopic heterogeneity in the solution. The morphologies of the domains depend on the level of addition of NaAOT in the system. The different stages of physiochemical changes that arise in solution have been identified by the use of different techniques, and correlations of the results have been attempted in terms of pragmatic models.