Most of the widely used surfactants found in common formulations are petrochemically derived and non-biodegradable in nature. Although, often not environmentally damaging in themselves they can facilitate the transport of otherwise insoluble pollutants into the water table.

This research aims to prepare and investigate surfactants from natural sources which are biodegradable, biocompatible and low in cost. The current area of investigation is into surfactants prepared from fatty acids and amino acids, using both traditional synthesis and bio-catalysis, in collaboration by Dr Simon Lewis and Prof. David Leak (both Bath) respectively. The amino acids selected for this research are found in waste product from brewing which is currently being used as animal feed, despite its low nutritional value, we hope that we will be able to use this feedstock directly to make a higher value product.

The structures and monolayers which can be prepared from the amino and fatty acid based surfactants, both in the pure forms and in mixtures, both with themselves and with commercially available surfactants, in collaboration with Unilever, will be investigated using a range of techniques. These include neutron and X-ray scattering and reflectivity.

Members in this area

• Naomi Elstone