Self-assembly of biosurfactants and model fragrances for greener formulations

This proposal will advance research into the self-assembly of biosurfactants and model fragrances in solutions. Small-angle neutron scattering of micelles will be used to study solutions of Rhamnolipids (RL), a bio-sourced alternative to conventionally used synthetic surfactants, and its local partitioning when mixed with Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). In addition, the localisation of four model fragrances within these micelles will be investigated. This will provide fundamental knowledge on the phase behaviour of biosurfactants in the presence of formulation additives, essential in the development of greener formulations for future cleaning and laundry products.

本研究提案将推进生物表面活性剂与模型香料在溶液中自组装行为的相关研究。研究将采用小角中子散射（small-angle neutron scattering）技术，针对作为传统合成表面活性剂生物基替代品的鼠李糖脂（Rhamnolipids, RL）的胶束溶液，以及其与十二烷基硫酸钠（Sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS）混合后的局部分配行为展开探究。此外，本研究还将对四种模型香料在上述胶束中的定位分布情况进行考察。本研究将为探明添加配方助剂时生物表面活性剂的相行为提供基础理论支撑，这对于开发面向未来清洁及洗衣产品的绿色配方具有关键意义。