Preparation and properties of glycerol‐based double‐ or triple‐chain surfactants with two hydrophilic ionic groups

A novel series of glycerol‐based double‐ or triple‐chain surfactants with two sulfonate, two sulfate or two carboxylate groups was conveniently prepared by reactions of 1‐ O ‐alkylglycerol diglycidyl ethers with long‐chain fatty alcohols, and followed by reactions with propanesultone, chlorosulfonic acid or bromoacetic acid, respectively. The sulfate and carboxylate types of compounds have higher water solubilities than the corresponding sulfonate type of compound bearing the same lipophilic group. The triple‐chain surfactants show excellent surface‐active properties, such as micelle forming and ability to lower surface tension, compared not only with the corresponding single‐chain anionic surfactants, but also with the corresponding double‐chain surfactants. The effect of the difference in head groups of these compounds on surface‐active properties is described. Foaming properties, wetting ability and lime‐soap dispersing requirement are also discussed.