POLYELECTROLYTE-SURFACTANT COMPLEXES IN THE SOLID-STATE - FACILE BUILDING-BLOCKS FOR SELF-ORGANIZING MATERIALS

The formation of polyelectrolyte-surfactant complexes is a simple way of producing new melt-processable, organic soluble materials in the so lid state with properties that range from thermoplastic via elastomeri c to thermosetting. Recently reported methods for preparing such compl exes-and characterizing their solid-state structures (see Figure)-are reviewed, critical issues highlighted: and prospects outlined.