Role of the spacer stereochemistry on the aggregation properties of cationic gemini surfactants

Langmuir. 2006 Oct 24;22(22):9333-8. doi: 10.1021/la061230f.

Abstract

The preparation and characterization of three stereoisomeric cationic gemini surfactants, 2,3-dimethoxy-1,4-bis(N-hexadecyl-N,N-dimethylammonio)butane dibromide, are described. The aggregation properties have been studied by fluorescence, electrical conductivity, and quasi-elastic light scattering. A conformational study of the surfactant headgroups has been performed by molecular mechanics calculations to investigate the effect of the stereogenic centers on the surfactant molecular shape and therefore on the different organizations of the monomers in the aggregates. Results show that the stereochemistry of the spacer strongly influences the aggregation behavior of the diasteromeric gemini in water.

MeSH terms

  • Cations / chemistry*
  • Electric Conductivity
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Models, Molecular
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds / chemistry*
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Surface-Active Agents / chemistry*

Substances

  • 2,3-dimethoxy-1,4-bis(N-hexadecyl-N,N-dimethylammonio)butane dibromide
  • Cations
  • Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
  • Surface-Active Agents