Polyelectrolyte-surfactant complexes in the solid state: Facile building blocks for self-organizing materials

The formation of polyelectrolyte-surfactant complexes is a simple way of producing new melt-processable, organic soluble materials in the solid state with properties that range from thermoplastic via elastomeric to thermosetting. Recently reported methods for preparing such complexes-and characterizing their solid-state structures (see Figure)-are reviewed, critical issues highlighted: and prospects outlined.