Molecular Modulation of Surfactant Aggregation in Water: Effect of the Incorporation of Multiple Headgroups on Micellar Properties

Abstract

Surfactant molecules self-organize in water,[1] often producing nearly spherical aggregates called micelles in dilute solutions, and lyotropic mesophases at higher concentrations. The polar headgroups of these aggregates lie near the bulk aqueous phase, whereas the hydrocarbon chains extend inwardly to avoid unfavorable water contacts.