Textile Silicone Oil Emulsion: Definition, Characteristics, and Industry Applications
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I. The Nature and Composition of Textile Silicone Oil Emulsion
Textile silicone oil emulsion is a stable emulsion system with silicone oil as the core component, dispersed in an aqueous phase by surfactants. The core silicone oil is a polysiloxane compound with a backbone composed of siloxane (Si-O-Si) bonds, with organic groups such as methyl and phenyl groups attached to the silicon atoms. This structure imparts silicone oil with properties such as low surface tension, high thermal stability, and chemical inertness. Within the emulsion, the silicone oil is uniformly dispersed in the form of micron-sized droplets. The surfactant forms a protective layer by reducing interfacial tension, ensuring emulsion stability. Based on the molecular structure of the silicone oil, emulsions can be categorized as hydroxyl silicone oil emulsions, amino silicone oil emulsions, and polyether-modified silicone oil emulsions. Amino silicone oil emulsions are the mainstream choice for high-end fabric softening due to the strong affinity of the amino groups with fibers.
II. Core Functions and Industry Value of Silicone Fluid Emulsions for Textiles
Innovative Fabric Performance: Fabrics treated with silicone fluid emulsions can reduce the static friction coefficient to below 0.12, achieving a soft, "cloud-like" feel while also improving elasticity, wrinkle resistance, and abrasion resistance. For example, amino silicone fluid emulsions can improve the wrinkle resistance of fabrics by 1-2 levels, making them suitable for applications such as suits and shirts where a crisp finish is crucial.
Breakthrough in Process Compatibility: Self-emulsifying systems can withstand extreme pH conditions of 3-12 and can be used in the same bath with anionic dyes and fluorescent brighteners without demulsification. This improves yield rates to over 98% in complex processes such as cheese dyeing and reactive printing.
Enhanced Environmental Compliance: Bio-based products (such as Siligen® EH1, which contains 35% plant-based ingredients) comply with EU REACH regulations and ZDHC zero-emission standards, driving the industry's transition to green manufacturing.
III. Technological Iterations and Market Prospects
With breakthroughs in nano-dispersion technology and low-VOC formulations, the application of silicone fluid emulsions in high-end textiles and personal care products continues to expand. It is estimated that the global market size will exceed US$800 million in 2025, of which functional products (such as special release agents) will account for more than 40%.