As the core auxiliary agent in the field of textile finishing, the development of silicone softeners profoundly reflects the technological innovation trajectory of the Western chemical industry. Since the mid-20th century, this technology has gradually evolved from basic laboratory research to a key support for the global textile industry chain. Its development process can be divided into three iconic stages.

1. The embryonic stage of technology (1940-1950s)
In 1940, the American Parnord Company first proposed a patent for treating fibers with dimethyldichlorosilane, which pioneered the application of silicone in the textile field. In 1945, General Electric (GE) treated fibers with an alkaline aqueous solution of sodium methylsiliconate to verify the waterproof performance of siloxane-based materials. In the early 1950s, Dow Corning Corporation made a breakthrough in compounding Si-H bond-containing polysiloxane with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), successfully solving the problem of stiff hand feel and laying the technical foundation for the first generation of silicone softeners. Research during this period mainly focused on optimizing waterproof performance, but the products had defects such as poor water resistance and easy demulsification.

2. Technological breakthrough period (1960-1980s)
In 1959, Dow Corning prepared hydroxy silicone oil emulsion by emulsion polymerization, marking the birth of the second generation of products. This technology forms a cross-linked structure on the surface of the fabric through a metal catalyst, significantly improving water resistance and stability. In the late 1970s, the modification technology made a breakthrough. By introducing active groups such as amino, epoxy, and polyether groups, the third generation of products achieved functional diversification. For example, amino-modified silicone not only gives the fabric a super soft feel, but also has antistatic and shrinkage-resistant properties, and quickly became the mainstream auxiliary agent for textile finishing.

3. Industry maturity period (1990s to present)
In the 21st century, the fourth generation of silicone softeners achieved a technological leap by introducing multiple active groups to meet diverse needs without compounding. Linear block copolymer modified products developed by German Wacker and Dow Chemical have made major breakthroughs in hydrophilicity, anti-yellowing, and environmental protection. Take TUBINGAL RISE from CHT of Germany as an example. 60% of its raw materials come from recycled silicone and bio-based emulsifiers, showing the deep integration of technological innovation and sustainable development.

From laboratory breakthroughs to industrial revolution, the development history of Western silicone softeners has confirmed the revolutionary impact of materials science on the textile industry. At present, the annual sales of the global silicone textile softener market has exceeded 10 billion US dollars, and technological iteration is still continuing. In the future, it will accelerate the evolution towards greening and functional integration.