Applications of Epoxy Silicone Oil in the Textile Industry: Functional Upgrades and Market Expansion
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I. Core Applications: Softening and Performance Enhancement
Epoxy silicone oil, with its epoxy groups in its molecules, has become a key auxiliary agent in textile finishing. It can undergo ring-opening addition reactions with hydroxyl and amino groups on the fiber surface, forming chemical bonds and giving fabrics lasting softness and resilience. Compared to traditional amino silicone oils, epoxy silicone oil solves the yellowing problem, making it particularly suitable for white or light-colored fabrics, such as shirts and outerwear. Furthermore, fabrics treated with epoxy silicone oil show significantly improved wash resistance, maintaining a soft feel even after multiple washes, and exhibit good stability to inorganic salts, making it suitable for various dyeing processes.
II. Composite Applications: Functional Expansion and Synergistic Effects
Epoxy silicone oil is often used in combination with other modified silicone oils to achieve complementary functions. For example, combining it with amino silicone oil can give fabrics a wool-like feel while enhancing shrinkage and wrinkle resistance; combining it with polyether silicone oil can improve hydrophilicity, enabling fabrics to maintain softness while possessing antistatic and stain-resistant properties. Furthermore, epoxy silicone oil can also serve as a key raw material for ternary block silicone oils, allowing for the control of fabric feel through molecular design. Low molecular weight products impart a lightweight and soft feel, while high molecular weight products enhance fullness and elasticity.
III. Market Prospects: Demand-Driven and Regional Growth
The global epoxy silicone oil market continues to expand, reaching $330 million in 2023, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.23% from 2023 to 2028. The textile industry is its primary consumer, accounting for over 36%, with particularly strong demand in the Asia-Pacific region. As the world's largest textile producer, China leads the growth rate in the epoxy silicone oil market, with its market share expected to exceed 59% by 2026. With technological advancements, the application of epoxy silicone oil in high-end fabrics and functional textiles will further expand, such as intelligent temperature-controlled fabrics and outdoor sportswear, driving the industry towards greener and more functional upgrades.