Behavior of the amphiphile CHAPS alone and in combination with the biopolymer inulin in water and isopropanol-water media.

Self-aggregation of the zwitterionic surfactant 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS) in water and isopropanol-water media, and interaction of the amphiphile with the biopolymer inulin in these media were investigated. The micellar properties of the zwitterionic surfactant and its associated interfacial and bulk properties along with the related energetic, and aggregation number were determined. The different stages of interaction of the CHAPS-inulin combines were identified and assessed. The complexes were formed and aggregated in solution at different stages of their molecular compositions. The aggregated sizes were determined by dynamic light scattering study and the morphology in the solvent removed states were examined using scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope techniques. The results witnessed formation of ensembles of varied and striking patterns.