The hydrophilicity of silicone softeners is primarily determined by specific groups and segments in their molecular structure.

Firstly, active silicone softeners are made hydrophilic by introducing hydroxyl groups (-OH) at both ends of linear dimethyl polysiloxane. As a hydrophilic group, hydroxyl can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, thereby increasing the interaction between the softener molecules and water molecules and enhancing hydrophilicity.

Secondly, polyether-modified silicone softeners transform originally hydrophobic silicone into hydrophilic silicone by introducing water-soluble unsaturated polyether segments. The polyether segments have good water solubility and can form hydrogen bonds or other interactions with water molecules, thus imparting hydrophilicity to the softener.

In addition, other groups and segments in the softener molecule may also influence its hydrophilicity, but hydroxyl and polyether segments are the main factors determining the hydrophilicity of silicone softeners.

In practical applications, the hydrophilicity of the softener can be precisely controlled by adjusting the content and ratio of hydroxyl and polyether segments in the softener molecule to meet the needs of different textile finishing processes. For example, in situations where fabrics need to have good moisture absorption and breathability, softeners with high hydroxyl content or long polyether segments can be chosen; whereas in situations where fabrics need to maintain a certain degree of hydrophobicity, softeners with low hydroxyl content or short polyether segments can be selected.

In summary, the hydrophilicity of silicone softeners is primarily determined by the hydroxyl and polyether segments in their molecular structure. By adjusting the content and ratio of these groups and segments, the hydrophilicity of the softener can be precisely controlled to adapt to the needs of different textile finishing processes.