Motionally induced asymmetry parameter in NMR spectral patterns from a lyotropic lamellar phase

A large asymmetry parameter in the deuterium spectral pattern is idetified for the first time near the gel position of the of the potassium palmitate-water system. This asymmetry, measured at the deuterated terminal methyl position of the hydrocarbon chain, implies biaxial order suggesting cooperative tilt of the chains in the bilayer.