Oil solubilization and transport properties of self-assembled linear and X-shaped gemini surfactants

Abstract

A comparative study is carried out to evaluate the performance of conventional linear surfactants (HT) and X-shaped gemini surfactants (GS), as nanocarriers for oily co-solutes. Both surfactant types achieve high oil solubilization efficiency (SE% > 98%) at the different surfactant concentrations and surfactant/oil ratios studied, but their aggregation and transport behavior are markedly different. It is noted that the GS model forms spherical micelles, whose stable aggregation process imparts enhanced mobility to the aggregates, with diffusion coefficients almost twice as large as those shown by the HT systems. In contrast, HT surfactants display a more dynamic aggregation process, limiting transport efficiency, except at high surfactant/oil ratios of 1 : 20, where partial aggregation stabilization occurs. By linking self-assembly features to oil solubilization efficiencies and transport properties, this work highlights the superior nanocarrier capability of gemini surfactants and their significance for advanced soft matter and nanotechnology applications.