Synthesis and Properties of Alkyl α- D -Galactopyranoside

Octyl α- D -galactopyranoside ( 4c ) had the strongest emulsifying ability for toluene, nonyl α- D -galactopyranoside ( 4d ) had the strongest emulsifying ability for rapeseed oil. The CMC values and surface tension at the CMC were decreasing with increasing alkyl chain length. Their standard free energy of adsorption (Δ G ads ) was more negative than their standard free energy of micellization (Δ G mic ).

The moisture-absorption abilities were weakening with increasing alkyl chain length. Alkyl α- D -galactopyranosides ( 4a ∼ 4f ) were thermal stability below 280 °C. Alkyl α- D -galactopyranosides ( 4c ∼ 4f ) had the optical texture of the thermotropic liquid crystal smectic A phase.