We have recently discovered that some calix[4]arene-based amphiphiles self-assemble into completely monodisperse micelles in terms of the aggregation number (Nagg). Interestingly, the Naggs are always consistent with the vertex number of Platonic solids, indicating the formation of polyhedral structures. Sulfonatocalix[4]arene-based amphiphiles are the most familiar amphiphie in calix[4]arene-based ones, and have been used in many researches in academia. However, no one has discussed the aggregation behavior in terms of the micellar aggregation numbers, which might demonstrate Platonic natures: monodispersity in the discrete aggregation numbers. In this study, we have investigated the structure of sulfonatocalix[4]arene-based micelles using small angle scattering techniques and analytical ultracentrifugation measurements. The sulfonatocalix[4]arene-based amphiphile composed of pentyl chains as the hydrophobic part self-assembles into tetramer micelles (Nagg = 4.0) which is the smallest aggregation number corresponding to the vertex number of regular polyhedral. The aggregation behavior could be controlled by changing the solvent conditions as well as by increasing the alkyl chain length. We will also discuss the thermodynamic consideration for the formation of Platonic micelles in this presentation.

Platonic micelles part 1: Monodisperse sulfonatocalix[4]arene-based micelles with discrete aggregation numbers

254th National Meeting (2017)

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