Using nano-structured interfacial peptide films to create stimuli-responsive foams and emulsions

Proteins and peptides assemble nanostructured interfacial films when adsorbed at the fluid-fluid interface. We have measured the mechanical properties of these interfacial films with novel apparatus, the Cambridge interfacial tensiometer (CIT) and shown that the characteristic behaviour of the films can be modulated in response to changes in solution conditions. Changes in the mechanical properties of these interfacial films correspond to changes in the stability of both liquid droplets in emulsion systems and air bubbles in foam systems. We have developed a series of peptide surfactants (Pepfactants ) that are capable of stabilising foams and emulsions in a stimuli-responsive manner.