I. Core Characteristics and Classification of Silicone Oil Emulsions
Silicone oil emulsions are stable systems composed of silicone oil as the core component, dispersed in an aqueous phase through emulsification technology. The core silicone oil belongs to the polysiloxane family, with a backbone composed of siloxane (Si-O-Si) bonds and side chains connected to organic groups such as methyl and hydroxyl groups. Based on molecular structure and emulsifier type, silicone oil emulsions can be categorized as hydroxyl silicone oil emulsions, amino silicone oil emulsions, and polyether-modified silicone oil emulsions. Hydroxyl silicone oil emulsions, due to the presence of active hydroxyl groups, have become the mainstream choice in textile finishing.

II. Core Functions of Silicone Oil Emulsions in Textile Finishing
1. Soft and Smooth Finishing
Silicone oil emulsions significantly reduce the coefficient of friction between fibers by forming a uniform lubricating film on the fiber surface. For example, cationic hydroxyl silicone oil emulsions have strong adsorption properties for synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon, imparting a smooth feel and enhancing wearer comfort. Anionic hydroxyl silicone oil emulsions are more suitable for natural fibers such as cotton and linen, improving fabric softness through film-forming properties while maintaining breathability.
2. Improved Wrinkle Resistance and Elasticity
The film-forming properties of silicone oil emulsions can enhance the elastic recovery of fibers. For example, UltrateX FSA nonionic hydroxyl silicone oil emulsion, with a molecular weight of 200,000, forms chemical bonds with the hydroxyl groups on the fiber surface, improving wrinkle resistance by over 30%. It also exhibits excellent washability, maintaining elasticity after 50 washes.
3. Waterproofing and Antifouling Treatment
Hydroxyl silicone oil emulsions react with fibers through their active hydroxyl groups, creating a hydrophobic network structure. Experimental data shows that cotton fabrics treated with silicone oil emulsions can achieve a water repellency rating of up to Class 4 (AATCC 22 standard), with a contact angle increased to 135°, while maintaining breathability. When compounded with fluoropolymers, the water- and oil-repellency can be further improved to level 5.
4. Optimizing Antistatic Properties
Polyether-modified silicone oil emulsions introduce hydrophilic polyether segments to form a conductive film on the fiber surface. Tests show that the surface resistance of polyester fabrics treated with this emulsion is reduced from 10¹⁴Ω to 10⁹Ω, meeting the GB/T 12703 standard for antistatic performance, making it suitable for specialized applications such as electronic cleanroom clothing.

III. Technological Evolution and Industry Trends
Second-generation hydroxyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane emulsions achieve simultaneous polymerization and emulsification through emulsion polymerization, achieving nanoscale particle uniformity and over 50% greater stability than mechanical emulsification. Current research focuses on functional modifications, such as the introduction of active groups such as amino and epoxy groups, to impart multiple functionalities to silicone oil emulsions, including softness, antistatic properties, and hydrophilicity, meeting the dual demands of comfort and functionality for high-end textiles.