Synthesis of gemini benzimidazolium surfactant and interaction of their micellar aggregates with antibacterial drug levofloxacin: A multi-technique approach

The cationic gemini 1,3-bis-(1-tetradecylbenzimidazolium) propane bromide (BG14) surfactant has been synthesized and the influence of the levofloxacin (Lvf), a potential antibacterial drug on the micellar properties of BG14 surfactant was observed. Hence, it would be exciting to calculate the state of micelle-formation for designing a system that would be helpful in pharmaceutical formulations. Thus, various techniques like tensiometry, cyclic voltammetry, conductivity, UV-visible, fluorescence, and time-resolved fluorescence were utilized to investigate the interaction between BG14 surfactant with Lvf. In addition, Rubingh's model was used to evaluate various mixed micellar parameters like X-1, X-ideal, cmc*, beta, and G(E). FTIR study confirmed the existence of inter-molecular interactions among Lvf+BG14 over the studied concentration range. Lastly, this study can prove to be impactful in measuring and developing gemini-surfactant immobilized Lvf for improved biological action.