Dilution and Interfacial Properties of Cyclic Containing Sulfonate Surfactants

My project will focus on characterising and determining the interfacial and dilute solution properties of anionic
(sulfonate based) surfactants containing a cyclic component such as furan or cyclohexane. I will aim to make a direct
comparison between structures with and without the cyclic component to understand its importance in relation to the
surfactants properties and effectiveness for use in cleaning products. I will also explore whether the aromaticity of the
cyclic component plays an important role in the surfactants properties. During the academic portion of my project, my
objectives will be to use advanced characterisation techniques such as small angle x-ray scattering, surface tension,
conductivity and neutron scattering to determine the critical micelle concentrations, variation in the packing
parameter, (i.e. if they form curved or planar membranes) and compatibility with other formulation ingredients such as
salts and other surfactants. My primary supervisor, Professor Karen Edler, will advise me with her extensive
knowledge of surfactants, surface interactions and phase behaviour. My secondary supervisor, Dr Simon Lewis, will
contribute his expertise in surfactant synthesis and access to his laboratory, which is equipped for this type of
synthetic work. During the industrial placement with Unilever, my objectives will be to understand how the structures
and properties of the surfactants, synthesised during the academic portion, effect the performance when used within
a cleaning product formulation. The overarching goal of my project is to find an effective biobased alternative to the
commercially used surfactant, linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) to reduce the dependency on finite petrochemicals
and formulate more sustainable products for the future. This research also aligns with the Engineering and Physical
Sciences Research Councils (EPSRC) goals of discovery and innovation for the benefit of society and the economy.