Abstract: Method and process for forming selected microstructures having predetermined shape and dimension from surfactants comprising the steps of: selecting a lipid which self aggregates into a predetermined microstructure selected from the group of helices and tubules; selecting a lipid solvating organic solvent; dissolving the selected lipid in the selected organic solvent; adding a predetermined amount of non-solvent to the selected organic solvent; and allowing the solution to sit for a predetermined period of time at a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A method for synthesizing a diynoic acid having the formula CH.sub.3 (CH.sub.2).sub.n --C.tbd.C--C.tbd.C--(CH.sub.2).sub.m CO.sub.2 H comprising the steps of: selecting a one-halo alkyne from the group consisting of CH.sub.3 (CH.sub.2).sub.n C.tbd.CX, where X is a selected halogen; selecting an omega-alkynoic acid having the formula, HC.tbd.C(CH.sub.2).sub.m CO.sub.2 H; dissolving the alkynoic acid in an aqueous solution of base; adding a catalytic amount of cuprous halide dissolved in an aqueous solution of alkylamine to the aqueous solution of alkynoic acid; adding a reducing agent to the solution of alkynoic acid and cuprous halide; adding the one-halo alkyne to the solution; adding as much more of the reducing agent to the solution as is necessary to maintain the cuprous ion in the cuprous state; wherein m is selected from the group of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, and n is selected from the group of 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16.