Structures in aqueous solutions of nonionic tensides

Abstract

Since Bordier succeeded in isolating solutions of hydrophobic proteins with the aid of aqueous Triton X-114 (reaction product of p-octylphenol with 7–8 mol ethylene oxide), more and more biochemists and biotechnologists have become interested in such systems. We have been able to demonstrate that lamellar structures formed in miscibility gaps of polyglycol ether/water systems are responsbile for this isolation. We then succeeded in isolating and electronmicrographing the insulin receptor in one of these lamellar systems.

Structures in the isotropic solution in the region between the micelles and mesomorphous phases of the Triton X-114/water system have been detected with the electron microscope for the first time and are considered to be responsible for the formation of micro-emulsions.

The phase diagram of the reaction product of an alcohol mixture with 5 mol ethylene oxide and water is presented and interpreted. Polarization and electron micrographs are again used for this purpose.

The author explains why it has taken so long for the existence of defined tenside hydrates to receive recognition.