Spectroscopic Study of the Ternary Complex of Beta-Cyclodextrin, Pyrene, and Triton X-100

Abstract

The increased fluorescence intensity of pyrene due to indirect excitation by the nonionic surfactant Triton X-100 is discussed. Sensitization is quantitatively shown to occur in mixed solutions of pyrene, Triton X-100, and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). A ternary complex is formed below the critical micelle concentration (CMC). Above the CMC, pyrene is displaced from the β-CD cavity. This is accompanied by a subsequent incorporation of pyrene into the interior of the micelle. Evidence is given that ternary complexation occurs among pyrene, CD, and TX-100.