Amino acid surfactants are molecules with a molecular structure that contains both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components, usually consisting of a long chain of hydrophobic groups (usually alkyl or aromatic groups) and an amino acid component at one end. This molecular structure gives them special chemical properties in water or other polar solvents. Amino acid surfactants are able to reduce surface tension on the surface of liquids, which means that they are able to improve the interaction between liquids and non-polar substances, such as oils or lipids, allowing them to mix. At the same time, they are also able to form micellar structures in the liquid, in which the hydrophobic part gathers inside and the hydrophilic part is exposed outside, which helps to disperse the oily substance in the water, thus achieving emulsification and dispersion.
Amino acid surfactants are often used in a wide variety of applications, including biochemistry, food industry, pharmaceutical industry, cosmetic manufacturing and environmental engineering. They can be used as emulsifiers, dispersants, lubricants, cleaning agents, drug delivery systems, and catalysts for various chemical reactions. They are generally considered relatively environmentally friendly surfactants due to their natural amino acid component, as they break down quickly in the environment and are less toxic to aquatic organisms, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. Overall, amino acid surfactants have attracted much attention for their versatility, sustainability, and wide range of applications.
