Abstract
We consider the instability of amphiphilic sponge phases with respect to a fluctuating lamellar phase in a consistent random interface model based on the curvature-elastic Hamiltonian of the membranes. The phase behavior is investigated in terms of bending moduli and surfactant concentration. First-order transitions are found upon changes in surfactant concentration, bending modulus, or saddle-splay modulus in agreement with experimental observation.

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