Thermally induced fluid reversed hexagonal (H_II) mesophase

In the present study we characterized the microstructures of the L _c and H_II phases in a glycerol monooleate (GMO)/tricaprylin (TAG)/water mixture as a function of temperature. We studied the factors that govern the formation of a low-viscosity H_II phase at relatively elevated temperatures (>35°C). This phase has very valuable physical characteristics and properties. The techniques used were differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide- and small-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS and SAXS, respectively), NMR (self-diffusion and ²H NMR), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies. The reverse hexagonal phase exhibited relatively rapid flow of water in the inner channels within the densely packed cylindrical aggregates of GMO with TAG molecules located in the interstices. The existence of two water diffusion peaks reflects the existence of both mobile water and hydration water at the GMO-water interface (hydrogen exchange between the GMO hydroxyls and water molecules). Above 35°C, the sample became fluid yet hexagonal symmetry was maintained. The fluidity of the H_II phase is explained by a significant reduction in the domain size and also perhaps cylinder length. This phenomenon was characterized by higher mobility of the GMO, lower mobility of the water, and a significant dehydration process.