Definition of Solubilization
- Solubilization is the process of dissolving a solute into a solvent with the aid of surfactants, forming a thermodynamically stable isotropic solution.
Mechanism
- Micellar Solubilization: Incorporation of hydrophobic solute molecules into the hydrophobic core of micelles.
- Phase Behavior: Surfactants above the CMC facilitate solubilization.
Factors Affecting Solubilization
- Surfactant Structure: Tail length and head group influence capacity.
- Temperature: Can enhance or reduce solubilization efficiency.
- pH and Ionic Strength: Affect ionizable surfactants and solutes.
Applications
- Drug Formulation: Enhancing bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.
- Controlled Release: Micelles as carriers for sustained drug delivery.
- Analytical Techniques: Solubilization in sample preparation.
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