3 Review(s)

This first volume in the series includes detailed chapters on cationic, polymeric, 'hybrid' fluorocarbon / hydrocarbon surfactants and biosurfactants, as well as on esters of alpha-sulphonated fatty acids. The production, physico-chemical properties and applications of these products are discussed in depth. Other chapters focus on specific applications, including a Japanese perspective on surfactants for personal-care products and an account of the use of surfactant systems for the environmental remediation of contaminated land. The biodegradability, aquatic toxicity and oestrogenic activity of alkylphenol ethoxylates continue to be a focus of health, safety and environmental concern and a status report is therefore an essential part of this review. Greater understanding of the physical behaviour of surfactants in solution is also an important element of the volume. Several chapters focus on this aspect of particular products and a separate chapter is devoted to the subject of multiple emulsions.