There are several manufacturers of silicone emulsions for textile applications, including Dow Corning, Wacker, Momentive, Shin-Etsu, and Elkem. These emulsions are specially formulated for use in the textile industry and provide a range of benefits to fabric manufacturers and processors.
Some of the functions of silicone emulsions in textile applications include:
- Softening: Silicone emulsions are commonly used as softeners in textile finishing processes to improve the feel and texture of fabrics. They help to reduce stiffness, increase flexibility, and enhance the draping properties of the fabric.
- Lubrication: Silicone emulsions can also be used as lubricants in textile processing to reduce friction between fibers and machinery. This helps to improve the efficiency of the manufacturing process and minimize wear and tear on equipment.
- Antistatic properties: Silicone emulsions can help to reduce static electricity buildup on fabrics, which is particularly important in applications where static electricity can cause problems, such as in the production of electronic components or in clean room environments.
- Water repellency: Silicone emulsions can be used to make fabrics water-repellent or water-resistant, which is useful in applications such as rainwear, outdoor gear, and upholstery.
- Release agents: Silicone emulsions can be used as release agents in the manufacturing of various textile products, such as foam-backed fabrics, to prevent sticking or adhesion during production.
- Thermal resistance: Some types of silicone emulsions can provide thermal resistance to fabrics, making them suitable for use in applications where high temperatures are present, such as in fire-resistant clothing.
Overall, silicone emulsions are important specialty chemicals in the textile industry, providing a range of benefits such as softening, lubrication, antistatic properties, water repellency, release, and thermal resistance.
Fineotex is the biggest manufacturer of ” silicone-softeners “