On mixed binary surfactant systems comprising MEGA 10 and alkyltrimethylammonium bromides: a detailed physicochemical study with a critical analysis

Self-aggregation of mixed binary nonionic and ionic surfactants comprising N-methyl-N-decanoyl glucamide (MEGA 10) and alkyltrimethylammonium bromides (C(12)-, C(14)-, and C(16)TAB) has been investigated in detail by different physical methods. The counter-ion binding, aggregation number, and polarity of the mixed micelles have been determined. The results have been analyzed in the light of the theories of Rubingh and Maeda. The thermodynamic parameters of the micellization process have been evaluated and discussed. The interfacial adsorptions of the mixed amphiphiles including their surface excesses and head-group areas have also been evaluated. Based on the head-group areas, the overall shapes of the mixed micelles have been predicted from the estimation of the amphiphile packing parameters.