Supra-Aggregation: Microphase Formation in Complex Fluids

Emulsions are not necessarily thermodynamically unstable. Here it is shown that thermodynamically stable states of self-assembled supra-aggregates exist, and that the component ratios and microstructures that form can be predicted quantitatively from elementary arguments. The Figure is a freeze fracture image of one of the phases that forms when copper(II) bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate is mixed with isooctane and water.