Aggregate Transitions in Aqueous Solutions of Sodium Dodecylsulfate with a Gemini-Type Organic Salt

Effects of a gemini-type organic salt 1,2-bis(2-benzylammoniumethoxy) ethane dichloride (BEO) on the aggregation behavior of sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) have been investigated by turbidity, surface tension, isothermal titration microcalorimetry, dynamic light scattering, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy, H-1 NMR spectroscopy, and differential scanning microcalorimetry. The aggregation behavior of the SDS/BEO mixed aqueous solution shows strong concentration and ratio dependence. For the SDS/BEO solution with a molar ratio of 5:1, large loose irregular aggregates, vesicles, and long thread-like micelles are formed in succession with the increase of the total SDS and BEO concentration. Because BEO has two positive charges, the SDS/BEO solution may consist of the (SDS)(2)-BEO gemini-type complex, the SDS-BEO complex and extra SDS. The aggregation ability and surface activity of the SDS/BEO mixture exhibit the characteristics of gemini-type surfactants. Along with the results of DSC and H-1 NMR, the (SDS)(2)-BEO gemini-type structure is confirmed to exist in the system. This work provides an approach to construct the surfactant systems with the characteristics of gemini surfactants through intermolecular interaction between a two-charged organic salt and oppositely charged single-chain surfactants.