Modeling the aggregation behavior of amphiphiles in the continuous phase of highly concentrated emulsions

摘要: Abstract We investigate the self-assembly of a diblock surfactant in continuous phase highly concentrated emulsions. The droplets dispersed confine growth aggregates, deeply modify their orientation and hence alter spatial arrangement as compared to taking place far enough from any boundary surface, namely bulk. By performing computer simulations, we show that interface between phases well its shape has significant impact on structural order resulting aggregates potential applications emulsions reaction media, drug delivery systems, or templates for meso/macroporous materials. Due combined effect symmetry breaking morphological frustration, very intriguing structures, such square columnar liquid crystals, twisted X-shaped helical cylindrical never observed bulk same model surfactant, have been found. presence other more conventional micelles cubic hexagonal formed at low high amphiphilic concentrations, respectively, further enhance interest this already rich aggregation behavior.