Base Polymer Raw Materials: The Backbone Material Building the Silicone-Oxygen Main Chain
The core raw materials of silicone softeners are polysiloxanes and their derivatives, primarily including the following two categories:
Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4): As a monomer for ring-opening polymerization, its ring structure, under the action of a catalyst, can form linear polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), the building block for the silicone-oxygen main chain. For example, Dow Corning 1111 Hydroxy Silicone Fluid is produced through D4 ring-opening polymerization and can reach a molecular weight of over 20,000.
Siloxanes containing reactive groups, such as hydrogenated silicone fluids (polymethylhydrogensiloxanes), have Si-H bonds that react with polyether or cellulose hydroxyl groups under the action of a catalyst to form a cross-linked structure. Amino-modified silicone fluids, by introducing amino side chains, significantly enhance fabric elasticity and washability.

Functionally modified raw materials: Key components that impart specialized properties.
Polyethers: Such as polyoxyethylene (PEO) or polyoxypropylene (PPO) segments, introduce hydrophilic groups through a grafting reaction, transforming the hydrophobic nature of silicones into hydrophilic ones. Polyether-modified silicone fluids can simultaneously exhibit anti-fouling and antistatic properties, as well as excellent biocompatibility.
Epoxy groups: Epoxy-modified silicone fluids utilize the high reactivity of epoxy groups to crosslink with hydroxyl or amino groups on the fiber surface, forming stable chemical bonds and enhancing the durability of the finish. However, they require the addition of highly hydrophilic groups to improve water absorption.
Auxiliary raw materials: Supporting materials for the emulsification and catalytic systems.
Emulsifiers: These include anionic (such as sodium alkyl sulfates), cationic (such as quaternary ammonium salts), and nonionic (such as polyoxyethylene ethers). They are used to disperse oily silicones into stable emulsions. For example, hydroxyl silicone oil emulsions often utilize mixed emulsifiers to ensure centrifugal stability.
Catalysts: Such as organotin compounds or titanates, they promote Si-H bond hydrolysis or hydroxyl condensation reactions, accelerating film formation. During the baking process, the catalyst can lower the cross-linking temperature and improve production efficiency.