Phase diagram of copper(II) bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate, Cu(AOT)₂-isooctane-water

A phase diagram of copper(II) bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate, Cu(AOT)₂-isooctane-water, is presented. Keeping the concentration of the Cu(AOT)₂-isooctane constant, an increase in the amount of water induces transitions. At low water content, spherical and cylindrical reverse micelles are formed. By increasing the water content, a phase transition takes place with formation of a bicontinuous system. Further addition of water leads to the formation of planar and bended (spherulite type) lamellae. As more water is added, only spherulites remain in the phase. Still further addition of water leads to a reappearance of an interconnected network and then reverse micelles.