Nanoassemblies from vitamin C derivatives

Abstract

Vitamin C is one of the most effective natural antioxidants. However, due to its poor solubility in non-aqueous environments, its use is restricted to water-based systems. In order to extend its advantages to lipophilic media, vitamin C must be converted into amphiphilic derivatives. Two new vitamin C-based surfactants were synthesized: a bolaform derivative (1,12-diascorbyl dodecanedioate, BOLA12), and a double chain product (2-octyl-dodecanoyl6-0- ascorbic acid, 8ASC10). Once dispersed in water above 0.5% w/w, BOLA12 forms hollow nanotubes that transform into clear micellar solutions on heating. 8ASC10 is poorly soluble in aqueous media, but it dissolves easily in cyclohexane where it forms true organogels. Cryo-TEM, XRD, SAXS, conductivity, viscosity and DSC experiments were performed in order to study the aggregation properties and morphology of these nanoassemblies. Show more