Exploring surface energetics, wettability and thermodynamic insights of bifonazole–triton X-100 in binary solvent systems

Bifonazole is a topical antifungal agent, but its therapeutic effectiveness is limited due to low solubility and permeability. The study explores physicochemical interaction between bifonazole and the non-ionic surfactant Triton X-100 to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of topical delivery of bifonazole. The thermodynamic studies were conducted using three distinct concentrations of bifonazole (1 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg), five hydro-ethanolic solvent concentrations (20 % v/v, 40 % v/v, 60 % v/v, 80 % v/v, and 100 % v/v), and five temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 40 °C. Various parameters, including density (ρ), surface tension (σ), contact angle (θ), and surface free energy, were evaluated. Additionally, critical micelle concentration (CMC) values were determined using the surface tension, along with key thermodynamic factors such as Gibbs free energy (ΔG°ₘ), standard enthalpy change (ΔH°ₘ), and standard entropy change (ΔS°ₘ). The ΔH°ₘ and ΔG°ₘ showed negative values, indicating spontaneous and exothermic micellization. The contact angle and surface free energy studies were employed to determine the hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity within the system. The results highlight specific concentrations and solvent conditions in which the bifonazole-surfactant combination exhibits improved thermodynamic stability, providing valuable insights for optimizing topical drug formulations.