In this work we consider the nonlinear dynamics of a Carreau liquid jet whose interface is covered with an insoluble surfactant. We solved the fully coupled system of governing equations that includes the two-dimensional (three-dimensional axisymmetric) continuity and momentum equations and the one-dimensional (two-dimensional axisymmetric) surfactant convection-diffusion equation using a finite element method with an adaptive mesh that conforms to the moving interface. After favorably comparing our predictions against limiting theoretical solutions, the role of the interactions between non-Newtonian and surfactant factors was investigated. The results indicate a strong synergistic interaction that plays a key role in the formation of satellite drops. Findings reported here could help reduce inefficiency and environmental pollution in various technological processes based on jet breakup such as spray drying, crop spraying and ink jet printing by controlling the formation of undesired satellite drops. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.