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Keywords
- Adsorption (1)
- Chemical dynamics (1)
- Coherent states (1)
- Density-matrix (1)
- Dual-Responsiveness (1)
- Manipulation of Emulsion Stability (1)
- Markov processes (1)
- Open quantum systems (1)
- Spiropyrane (1)
- Surface science (1)
Institute
A cationic surfactant containing a spiropyrane unit is prepared exhibiting a dual-responsive adjustability of its surface-active characteristics. The switching mechanism of the system relies on the reversible conversion of the non-ionic spiropyrane (SP) to a zwitterionic merocyanine (MC) and can be controlled by adjusting the pH value and via light, resulting in a pH-dependent photoactivity: While the compound possesses a pronounced difference in surface activity between both forms under acidic conditions, this behavior is suppressed at a neutral pH level. The underlying switching processes are investigated in detail, and a thermodynamic explanation based on a combination of theoretical and experimental results is provided. This complex stimuli-responsive behavior enables remote-control of colloidal systems. To demonstrate its applicability, the surfactant is utilized for the pH-dependent manipulation of oil-in-water emulsions.