Mixed-surfactant system of dodecylbenzene sulfonate and alpha-olefin sulfonate: Micellar and volumetric studies

Critical micelle concentrations of sodium salts of dodecylbenzene sulfonate, alpha-olefin (C₁₆) sulfonate, and their mixtures have been evaluated by measuring the surface tensions of solutions at 298.15 K. Interaction parameters for mixed monolayer formation (β^σ) and mixed-micelle formation (β^M) have been calculated from the critical micelle concentration data. Densities of solutions of surfactants and their mixtures were measured with a vibrating-tube densimeter at 298.15 K. Apparent and partial molar volumes have been evaluated from solution density data. Results of the micellar properties have been eplained on the basis of a nonideal multicomponent mixed-micelle model. The mixed-surfactant system exhibits synergism in all aspects when the mole fraction of alpha-olefin sulfonate in the mixture is 0.2. Volumetric properties correlate well, as the partial molar volumes also show a minimum at the same composition of the mixture. Formation of a compact mixed micelle at this composition has been envisaged.