Microscopic and macroscopic anisotropy in supramolecular hydrogels of histidine-based surfactants

The synthesis of novel histidine-based surfactants and their self-assembling properties into anisotropic microscopic and macroscopic spaces are reported. Below pH 8, surfactant molecules self-assemble into micelles whereas hydrogelation occurs above pH 8 even at very low concentrations (0.3%w/v). Structure, size, and morphology of the fiber-like lamellar aggregates were determined by SAXS and WAXS measurements, polarized optical microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, and linear and circular dichroism. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.