Interaction Parameters for the Formation of Mixed Micelles and Partitioning of Solutes in Them: A Review

When two or more surfactants are mixed, the critical micelle concentration and solubilization capability are changed, and a careful selection of the combination promotes the micelle formation and enhances the solubilizing capability. Thus, understanding the mechanism behind the phenomena is essential for controlling the physical properties of the mixed micelle. The interaction parameters β and B that describe the formation of mixed micelles and their partitioning of solutes, respectively, were proposed by Treiner four decades ago. In this work, data on the formation and partitioning in binary surfactant systems were collected. Although the data on the parameters β and B for polar solutes and theoretical development are still insufficient, the directions of research to acquire an in-depth understanding of the formation and partitioning of the mixed micelle are proposed.