Application of 2D polymer film scaling theory to natural sea surface films

The polymer film scaling theory was applied, by measuring the high-frequency limit of the surface modulus E 0 as a function of the surface pressure P [ E 0 = yP, where y = 2ν (2ν − 1) and ν is the critical exponent of the excluded volume], to natural marine surface films. An increase in y from < 3.5 through ∼ 8 to over 10 indicating “good”, Θ, and “poor” solvent behaviour, respectively of the interfacial system is also correlated with the structure transition in the multicomponent film beginning from a homogeneous mixed monolayer, through a heterogeneous film with surface-active substances segregated into patches or domains to at least a vertically layered structure at the interface, and it is believed to hold for natural sea surface films. The scaling exponent y is a complex function of environmental factors affecting the film structure (bulk concentration of a surfactant, pH, ionic strength and composition of the subphase, temperature, locations of sampling site and film collection procedures).