Abstract
The study of chemical reactions at an interface using a theory of the dynamics of interfaces is of great interest. Here we studied the saponification taking place at a hexane—water interface when ethyl palmitate transfers from hexane to aqueous alkali solution. During saponification at the interface, the interfacial tension decreases as a function of time; after a certain time, the interfacial tension passes through a minimum, then reaches a steady state. The minimum is due to the difference in the adsorptions of reactants, intermediates and products. The steady state values are described by a new surface equation of state which is established by modifying the Langmuir equation for a surfactant system with an adjustable parameter (1 + 2 x S 2/ x S 1 where x S 2 and x S 1 are the mole fractions of surfactants 1 and 2 in the surface). The dynamic and steady state values are treated theoretically and compared with experimental values. Rather good agreement between theory and experiment is achieved.
Published Version
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 call