Reduction of micellar size of PEO−PPO−PEO triblock copolymer in presence of ionic liquid in aqueous solutions: A SANS study

ABSTRACT

The interaction of ionic liquids (ILs) with non-ionic triblock copolymer, Pluronic® P123, in aqueous solutions has been investigated using Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) measurements. The micellar structural parameters are obtained by fitting the SANS scattering data with model composed of core-shell form factor and a hard sphere structure factor of interaction, as a function of cationic head group of ILs. With the addition of ILs, a decrease in the micellar core, aggregation number, and hard sphere radius of P123 micelles was noticed. The results are discussed and explained as a function of cationic head groups of N-octylpyridinium/imidazolium chloride.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Block copolymers
• effect of cationic head groups
• ionic liquids
• micellization

Declaration of interest

I do not have any conflict of interest regarding this publication.

Additional information

Funding

Dr. Rohit L. Vekariya is thankful to Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU-DEMASTED) for financial support.