ABSTRACT
As their name implies, wormlike micelles have two salient features: an elongated, cylindrical shape, and flexibility. Undoubtedly, the most conspicuous property of wormlike micelles, which has received considerable attention from both experimental and theoretical points of view, is their flow behavior that underlies many of their applications. Wormlike micelle solutions are viscoelastic, that is, their response to mechanical perturbations involves both viscous flow and elastic deformation. Wormlike micelles can be formed from all types of surfactants. However, consumers are becoming conscious of environmental considerations, and utilizing wormlike micelles made of environmentally friendly surfactants is becoming more frequent. Wormlike micelles are currently being used rather extensively in applications as diverse as oilfield stimulation fluids, drag reduction, and personal care products, shampoos in particular. In many applications, wormlike micelles function as vehicles and containers for the active ingredients of the product. However, the rheological properties of these micelles are perhaps more important.
