Surfactants and Polymers in Aqueous Solution

This text examines surfactants and polymers in aqueous solution. It covers: phase behaviour of concentrated surfactant systems; physiochemical properties; mixed micelles; intermolecular interactions; regular solution theory; polymerisable surfactants; surfactants as emulsifiers; and microemulsions.

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Given that many industrial formulations such as detergents, paints and cosmetics contain both surfactants and polymers, it is perhaps surprising that to date there is no single book which discusses the solution chemistry of both. This book, based on successful courses given by the authors, fills this gap. Surfactants and Polymers in Aqueous Solution presents on the one hand the theory of surfactant and polymer interactions, and on the other gives very practical help for workers in this area. This book includes a thorough description of surfactant types, including their main synthetic routes, and discusses physicochemical phenomena such as self-assembly, adsorption, gel formation and foaming. Particular attention is paid to the solution behaviour of surfactants and polymers containing polyoxyethylene chains. Surface-active polymers are then presented and their interaction with surfactants is a core topic of the book. The choice of surfactant for emulsions and microemulsions is treated in depth and important applications of microemulsions, such as detergency and enhanced oil recovery, are presented.
Surfactants and Polymers in Aqueous Solution is aimed at all those involved in surfactant production and formulation. Reviews of the hardback edition. The book provides the reader with an excellent opportunity of acquiring a good understanding of the behaviour of surfactant polymer combinations. The reaction of undergraduates and postgraduates on seeing the book in my office was wholeheartedly favourable The Alchemist