Abstract:
In this research, anionic (SDS) and nonionic (TX100) surfactant mixtures (1:2,
1:1, 2:1; TX100: SDS mass ratios) were evaluated for possible synergism in Critical
Micelle Concentration (CMC). Synergism of both surfactants was sought in presence
of shale and/or oil phase. The composition of mixed micelles and the interaction
parameter,
evaluated from the CMC data obtained by both Surface Tension (ST) and Interfacial
Tension (IFT) for different systems using Rubinghs theory were discussed.
Both techniques give comparable conclusions regarding synergism in CMC. However,
using IFTs to determine CMCs before and after equilibration with shale showed
greater losses of nonionic surfactant than using ST technique. For the interfacial
tension data, β-values ranges from -5.803 to -5.917 before equilibration
with shale and from -1.286 to -2.045 after equilibration with shale for the
mixtures with TX100 mole fractions of 0.18 and 0.47, respectively. This result
suggested that synergism was always stronger before equilibration with shale
and/or contact with oil phase. Among the mixtures studied, the mixture with
higher TX100 mole ratio exhibit more synergism than others. This is particularly
true after equilibration with shale and/or contact with oil phase pointing out
to the role, the losses of TX100 may have on synergism of TX100-SDS mixtures.
Mazen Ahmed Muherei and Radzuan Junin, 2009. Investigating Synergism in Critical Micelle Concentration of Anionic-Nonionic Surfactant Mixtures: Surface Versus Interfacial Tension Techniques. Asian Journal of Applied Sciences, 2: 115-127.