Microemulsions: Phase Diagrams, Structure and Applications (including Reactions in Microemulsions)

AB block copolymers of poly (2-vinylpyridine)/polystyrene and poly (2-vinylpyridine)/poly (dimethylsiloxane) have been prepared and characterized. The poly (2-vinylpyridine) blocks were oxidized to obtain amphiphilic nonionic block copolymer surfactants which could be used in microemulsion type systems. The properties of these copolymers in single and mixed solvent systems have been investigated using turbidimetry, photon correlation spectroscopy, viscosity and interfacial tension measurements. Results of these studies will be presented with special reference to the oil/water/macrosurfactant/cosurfactant microemulsion system. The stability of these systems as a function of temperature will also be discussed.