Polyhydroxyl-based surfactants and their physico-chemical properties and applications

This contribution deals with the physical-chemical properties of surfactants carrying hydroxyl groups in the polar part. Topics discussed include surface and colloid properties, micelles (both single and multi-component), general phase behaviour and microemulsions. A general conclusion is that our understanding of polyhydroxy surfactants is increasing, but that further work is needed to unravel certain aspects of this important class of surfactants. Examples of such aspects are the origin of the liquid-liquid phase separation and the adsorption to solid surfaces of polyhydroxy surfactants.