The solubilizing and emulsifying properties of nonionic surfactants with reference to soil remediation

Micellar solubilizations of C6H14 and C2Cl4 were run in ethoxylated C-9-C-16 alcohols (HLB = 12-16.2) and C-12-C-14 alkylphenols (12.5-17.8) used (10:1 v/v) as surfactants at concns. of 2.5-50 g/l.; the mixts. were shaked 12 hrs. at 1500, sepd. at 5000 rpm, and kept 96 hrs. at 23 +/- 0.5 degrees C. Emulsion stability was detd. in 3, 24, 48, and 72 hrs. As the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) was raised, the efficiency of solubilization and stability of the emulsion fell. For soil remediation/washing, low-HLB surfactants appeared advisable (contaminants best solubilized), but the resulting macroemulsions were most stable, highly viscous, and less mobile in the soil. Suitable tech. designs are desirable.