Concentrated dispersions of aqueous polyelectrolyte-like microphases in non-polar hydrocarbons

Abstract

Properties of individual aqueous microphases and of their dispersions (microemulsions) in non-polar media are discussed, with particular emphasis on the implication of the Poisson–Boltzmann equation and the role of the semi-diffuse ionic double layer in such systems in general, and calorimetric and ²³Na-n.m.r. experiments are presented. Ensemble properties are demonstrated by means of electro-optic Kerr-effect measurements which elucidate, in particular, temperature-dependent reversible coagulation of microphases, solvent effects on their interaction and electric-field effects on the critical (one-phase demixing) coacervation state. Finally, H₂O self-diffusion studies have been made to examine the percolation region. An Arrhenius plot of the latter process displays two distinct branches which can be reasonably well correlated with the expected underlying molecular processes.