THERMODYNAMIC THEORY OF SURFACTANT PHASES

Thermodynamic reasoning is a central aspect of our understanding of su rfactant self-assembly. It provides both a conceptual framework and a basis for a quantitative interpretation of experimental results. Recen t theoretical advances have been made in the understanding of size and shape of the micellar aggregates and the forces that lead to their fo rmation, the theory describing the equilibrium between micelles and ve sicles, the thermodynamics of microemulsion formation, and the modelli ng of solubilization of apolar solutes into aqueous systems of micelle s/vesicles.