Advantages and limitations of different methods to determine the optimum formulation in surfactant–oil–water systems: A review

Abstract The optimum formulation in a surfactant–oil–water (SOW) system is defined as the physicochemical situation at which surfactant adsorbed interface exhibits exactly equal interactions for both oil and water. Identifying of SOW systems crucial various industrial applications, ranging from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics petroleum issues like dehydration enhanced recovery. Multiple techniques are available identify formulation, often with its own advantages limitations. In this comprehensive review, we provide an in‐depth analysis systematic use scans systems. We critically assess different methods, including conventional ones, such phase behavior observation, determination minimum interfacial tension equilibrated systems, localization emulsion stability using scans. also mention new promising technique that can be applied practice, oscillating spinning drop rheology (OSDIR) well others allow understanding some structural features domains present surfactant‐rich Among these dynamic light scattering (DLS), small angle (SAXS SANS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X‐ray microcomputed tomography (Micro‐CT), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), found literature. Finally, discuss potentially unusual behaviors appear complex thus providing guidance on selection most suitable method tailored specific application.