Surfactant self-assembly structures and multilayer formation at the solid-solution interface induces by electrolyte, polymers and proteins

Recent developments in the study of the formation of self-assembled surfactant structures and multilayers at the solid-solution interface are presented. It covers a wide range of phenomena, but in this review the main focus is on the surface structures formed from dilute solution in the presence of electrolyte and in more concentrated solutions. Their formation under those conditions are set in the wider context of the more extensive observations of their occurrence in more complex polymer-surfactant mixtures. Although the sequential adsorption methods using layer-by-layer approaches are more well established for polyelectrolytes and their associated mixtures, the main emphasis is on the self-assembly. The opportunities to manipulate wetting properties and to generate enhanced wetting characteristics are discussed. The potential applications, modifying wetting behaviour, efficient near surface reservoir for enhanced and prolonged delivery of active components, and for the development of a range of smart functionalised surfaces are highlighted.

Automated summary

Recent developments in the study of self-assembled surfactant structures and multilayers at the solid-solution interface are presented, with a focus on surface structures formed from dilute solutions in the presence of electrolyte and in more concentrated solutions. While sequential adsorption methods using layer-by-layer approaches are well established for polyelectrolytes and their mixtures, the emphasis here is on self-assembly. Opportunities to manipulate wetting properties and generate enhanced wetting characteristics are discussed, along with potential applications in modifying wetting behavior, creating efficient near surface reservoirs for prolonged delivery of active components, and developing smart functionalized surfaces.