Adsorption and Desorption of Triton X-100 in Polystyrene Particles with Different Functionality

An experimental desorption study of Triton X-100 from latices with different functionality is presented. Two different strategies to follow the desorption experiment have been used: first, a discontinuous method based on the wash step (centrifugation-removal-redispersion); and second, a continuous method based on the replacement of the disperse media. The desorption results show that in all cases a residual amount of Triton X-100 remains adsorbed, indicating irreversibility of the surfactant adsorption. Finally, the effect of desorption on the colloidal stability of one type of latex-surfactant complex has been analyzed. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.