What is critical micelle concentration?

Answer ID 3280   |    Updated 07/25/2017 01:10 PM

 PRINT

A micelle is an aggregated unit composed of a number of molecules of a surface active material as shown in the drawing below. Micelles solubilize dirt and oils by lifting these soils off
the surface and dispersing them into solution. Micelle formation enables emulsi cation, solubilization, and dispersion of otherwise non-compatible materials. Critical micelle
concentration (CMC) is the surfactant concentration at which an appreciable number of micelles are formed and thus remove soils (see drawing below).

Critical micelle concentration (CMC) is a measure of surfactant e ciency. A lower CMC indicates less surfactant is needed to saturate interfaces and form micelles. Typical CMC
values are less than 1% by weight (e.g., TRITON X-100 Surfactant has a CMC of 0.0130%). To obtain optimal cleaning performance, concentrations of 1-5% are common. This
concentration is higher than that needed to achieve micelle formation; therefore, providing a reservoir of additional surfactant molecules to form micelles. These micelles solubilize and
disperse soils leading to detergency. CMC values provide a valuable guideline for comparing surfactant detergency. Other formulation components and temperature may affect micelle
formation.

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