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Principles of attaining very large solubilization (microemulsion): inclusive understanding of the solubilization of oil and water in aqueous and hydrocarbon media

Journal Article · · J. Phys. Chem.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/j150665a065· OSTI ID:5939835

It is intrinsically important to change the hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLB) of a surfactant mixture continuously by various devices in order to attain a large solubilization or ultimately complete mixing of hydrocarbon and water with less surfactant. The maximum solubilization of hydrocarbon (or water) was observed close to the surfactant phase separation at which the hydrophile-lipophile property of a surfactant mixture balances for a given system. The relative solubilities of water and oil in the surfactant phase change with the HLB of a surfactant mixture. Conceptual interpretations on the solubilization of oil and water in surfactant aggregates were embodied on the phase diagrams presented. The devices of cosurfactants, surfactants, and their combinations yielded very large solubilization. The hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLB) of a surfactant is certainly a function of variables such as a surfactant composition, temperature, valence of the counterions, salt concentration, etc. It is argued that the HLB of a surfactant in the system and the HLB number of the surfactant should not be confused.

Research Organization:
Yokohama National Univ., Japan
OSTI ID:
5939835
Journal Information:
J. Phys. Chem.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Phys. Chem.; (United States) Vol. 88:21; ISSN JPCHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English