Silicone softeners are both hydrophilic and hydrophobic, which mainly depends on their molecular structure and chemical modification methods.

First of all, polyorganosiloxane itself has low surface energy, excellent lubricity, thermal stability and hydrophobicity. However, through specific chemical modification, the hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of its surface can be changed.

For hydrophilic silicone softeners, hydrophilic groups such as hydroxyl (-OH) and polyether groups are usually introduced into the silicone molecular chain during its preparation. The introduction of these groups makes the originally hydrophobic silicone molecules hydrophilic. For example, active silicone softeners are hydrophilic by introducing hydroxyl groups at both ends of linear dimethyl polysiloxane. Polyether-modified silicone softeners are hydrophilic silicones by introducing water-soluble unsaturated polyethers. This softener gives fabrics good anti-fouling and antistatic properties, and also has good biocompatibility and low glass transition temperature.

For hydrophobic silicone softeners, relatively few hydrophilic groups are introduced into their molecular structure, thus retaining their original hydrophobicity. This type of softener forms a water-insoluble molecular film on the fabric, giving the fabric waterproof and washable properties.

In addition, it is worth noting that the hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of silicone softeners are not absolute, but can be regulated within a certain range by adjusting the molecular structure and chemical modification methods. Therefore, in practical applications, the appropriate type of silicone softener can be selected according to the specific needs and processing conditions of the fabric.

In summary, the hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of silicone softeners depend on their molecular structure and chemical modification methods. By introducing different groups and changing the molecular structure, silicone softeners with different hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity can be prepared to meet the processing needs of different fabrics.