POLYMER MICELLE INTERACTIONS - PHYSICAL ORGANIC ASPECTS

This review presents a summary of attempts to characterize the morphology of the complexes formed between ionic and non-ionic surfactants and water-soluble polymers. It is now generally accepted that complex formation involves the binding of micelles to the macromolecule. This binding process modifies the size and properties of the micelles and affects the Gibbs energy of the polymer. A complex combination of interaction forces provides the driving force for complexation. Criteria for polymer-micelle interaction are discussed. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of charge and structure of the surfactant headgroup and on the effect of polymers on the micellar structure and properties of cetyltrimethylammonium salts.