The synthesis and analysis of zwitterionic surfactants: understanding the relationship between molecular architecture, self-assembly and other properties

Surfactants or surface active agents have unique properties and are therefore widely used, with examples extending from personal care products to industrial products. Their amphiphilicity enables to them adsorb at interfaces and self-assemble in solutions. The molecular structure of surfactants dictates the function and application of these molecules. The central focus of this thesis was the development, synthesis and analysis of novel zwitterionic surfactant molecules. The concepts presented concentrate on new developments regarding the classes of molecules studied, amidopropyl betaines (APBs) and amide amino acid surfactants. This provides new insight into structure-function relationships based on the architecture of these molecules, aids in development of formulations in industry and guides future surfactant design. Sustainability and environmental concerns were discussed throughout this work.