Thermodynamic theory of surfactant phases

Thermodynamic reasoning is a central aspect of our understanding of surfactant self-assembly. It provides both a conceptual framework and a basis for a quantitative interpretation of experimental results. Recent theoretical advances have been made in the understanding of size and shape of the micellar aggregates and the forces that lead to their formation, the theory describing the equilibrium between micelles and vesicles, the thermodynamics of microemulsion formation, and the modelling of solubilization of apolar solutes into aqueous systems of micelles/vesicles.