Silicone softener is an oily substance that is widely used in the textile, leather and other industries. The following is a detailed introduction to silicone softener:
1. Main ingredients
The main ingredients of silicone softener include organic silicon compounds and triglycerides, which are specifically mixed with silicone oil, fatty acid esters, emulsifiers and other ingredients. Among them, silicone oil is the most common ingredient in silicone softener, which plays multiple roles such as removing static electricity, increasing gloss, and softening the feel.
2. Classification
According to the chemical reactivity and fiber reactivity of the active ingredient polysiloxane silicone emulsion, silicone softener can be divided into the following categories:
Inactive silicone softener: mainly dimethyl silicone oil, called polydimethylsiloxane (DMPS), referred to as methyl silicone oil. This type of softener can give fabrics better softness and heat resistance, but its degree of polymerization is not high, it cannot be cross-linked by itself, and it does not react to fibers. Therefore, the feel, fastness and elasticity of the finished fabric are not ideal. It cannot be used directly as a softener. It must be prepared into a silicone oil emulsion under the action of an emulsifier before it can be applied to fabrics to increase washability.
Active silicone softener: This type of softener mainly replaces the two ends of the linear structure of dimethylpolysiloxane (DMPS) with hydroxyl (-OH) or caps it with hydroxyl to make it hydrophilic. The emulsion made of this end-hydroxyl-capped dimethylpolysiloxane is the so-called silicone hydroxyl emulsion. There are many types of such products. They can be used as softeners alone or in combination with other silicones to form a water-insoluble molecular film on the fiber. Therefore, the finished fabric has a certain waterproof and washable effect.
Modified silicone softener: This is a type of specially modified silicone softener with better performance and a wider range of applications.
3. Performance characteristics
Excellent softening effect: Silicone softener can significantly improve the softness and comfort of fabrics, making the fabric feel more delicate and smooth.
Good heat resistance: Silicone softener has excellent heat resistance, can maintain stable performance at high temperatures, and is not easy to decompose or deteriorate.
Washability: Fabrics treated with silicone softener have good washability and can still maintain a soft feel after multiple washings.
Environmental protection: Modern silicone softeners mostly use environmentally friendly raw materials, which are harmless to the human body and the environment and meet environmental protection requirements.
4. Application fields
Silicone softeners are widely used in textile, leather, papermaking and other industries. In the textile industry, silicone softeners are mainly used to treat fabrics of natural fibers such as cotton, linen, silk, wool and synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon to improve the softness and comfort of fabrics. In the leather industry, silicone softeners can be used for softening leather to make it softer and smoother. In the papermaking industry, silicone softeners can be used for softening paper to improve the softness and feel of paper.
5. Usage method
The use method of silicone softener usually includes processes such as impregnation, padding, and spraying. The specific method of use should be selected according to the actual production situation and equipment conditions. During use, attention should be paid to controlling the amount and dilution ratio of silicone softener to obtain the best softening effect.
6. Precautions
Storage conditions: Silicone softener should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, avoiding direct sunlight and high temperature.
Safe operation: During use, personal protective equipment such as protective gloves and masks should be worn to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes. If accidentally contacted, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention.
Environmental protection treatment: Wasted silicone softener should be properly handled in accordance with environmental protection requirements to avoid pollution to the environment.
In summary, silicone softener is a chemical with excellent performance and a wide range of applications. During use, the dosage and dilution ratio should be strictly controlled, and attention should be paid to storage conditions and safe operation requirements.