Synthesis and surface activity of polyethylene glycol–maleic anhydride–polydimethylsiloxane polyester surfactants

A novel series of water-soluble polyethylene glycol (PEG)–silicone polyester surfactants has been prepared by the polymerization of PEG, maleic anhydride, polydimethylsiloxane and fumaric acid. The unique structural features of these surfactants have been confirmed by FTIR, proton nuclear magnetic resonance and elemental analysis. Also, the influences of the PEG segment lengths of PEG–silicone polyesters on the surface tension, wetting power and dispersant properties were investigated. The experimental results indicated that the solution that contained the PEG–silicone polyester surfactants exhibits excellent surface active properties.