Smart Foams: Switching Reversibly between Ultrastable and Unstable Foams

Abstract

Smart foams: Ultrastable foams with an optimal foamability are obtained using hydroxy fatty acids tubes (see picture). The stabilization results from the adsorption of monomers at the air–water interface and from the presence of tubes in the plateau borders. Upon heating, tubes transform to micelles, leading to foam destabilization and thus to the first foams to exhibit temperature-tuneable stability.