Insertion of small anionic particles in negatively charged lamellar phases

We have studied the structure of ternary systems made of anionic anisotropic Laponite particles in coexistence with negatively charged lamellar phases of AOT. First, we measured the adsorption of surfactant monomers on the mineral area. Then, after determination of the stable monophasic domain in the ternary system, we studied the occurrence of possible microstructures. SAXS measurements combined with osmotic pressure measurements show that small inorganic negatively charged particles can be forced to be included in the hydrophobic part of the surfactant bilayers when the interlayer water thickness becomes smaller than the particle thickness.