Der Einfluß von Elektrolyten auf die Stabilisierung dünner wäßriger Filme durch nichtionogene Tenside

The stability of thin aqueous films between different hydrophobic phases was investigated in dependence of the condition of hydratation of the polyoxyethylene surfactant. The hydratation was changed by addition of different, high concentrated electrolytes. On exceeding a critical electrolyte concentration the films become unstable, if they are limited by at least one phase, which is sufficiently polar. The critical concentrations depends on the kind of organic liquid and electrolyte respectively and the number of ether groups in the surfactant molecule. The observed effect of destabilization is explained by strengthening of interaction of far extending dehydrated surfactant molecules with the organic phase. Further possible mechanism of film destabilization are discussed.