Active silicone softeners and silicone softeners both play an important role in the textile and leather processing industries, but there are some obvious differences between them. The following is a detailed comparison of the two products:
I. Main ingredients and structure
Active silicone softeners:
The main ingredient is a specially modified silicone compound.
This type of softener usually replaces the two ends of the linear structure of dimethyl polysiloxane (DMPS) with hydroxyl groups (-OH) or caps it with hydroxyl groups to make it hydrophilic.
The emulsion made from this end-hydroxyl-capped dimethyl polysiloxane is the so-called silicone hydroxyl emulsion.
Silicone softeners:
The main ingredients include silicone compounds and triglycerides.
It is specifically made of silicone oil, fatty acid esters, emulsifiers and other ingredients.
Among them, silicone oil is the most common silicone softener ingredient.
II. Performance characteristics
Active silicone softeners:
It has good softness and heat resistance.
It can form a water-insoluble molecular film on the fiber, which has a certain waterproof and washable effect.
It can be used as a softener alone, or it can be combined with other silicones to undergo cross-linking reactions.
Silicone softener:
Significantly improves the softness and comfort of fabrics, making the fabric feel more delicate and smooth.
It has excellent heat resistance and washability.
Made of environmentally friendly raw materials, harmless to the human body and the environment.
III. Application areas
Active silicone softener:
Mainly used to treat fabrics of natural fibers such as cotton, linen, silk, wool, and synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon.
It can also be used for softening leather.
Silicone softener:
Widely used in textile, leather, papermaking and other industries.
In the textile industry, it is mainly used to improve the softness and comfort of fabrics.
In the leather industry, it is used for softening leather.
In the papermaking industry, it is used for softening paper.
IV. Usage and precautions
Usage:
Both usually include processes such as impregnation, padding, and spraying.
The specific method of use should be selected according to the actual production situation and equipment conditions.
Precautions:
During use, both should strictly control the dosage and dilution ratio.
Avoid direct sunlight and high temperature during storage.
During use, personal protection should be taken to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
In summary, active silicone softeners and silicone softeners have obvious differences in main ingredients, performance characteristics, application areas, usage methods and precautions. When choosing which product to use, comprehensive consideration should be given to specific application requirements and process conditions.