Silicone oil based softeners including different additives – part I

Abstract

Purpose In this dichotomous study, the silicone-based softeners were produced with the contribution of some additives such as glycerin, polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) and polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG 4000) which had hydrophilic hydroxyl groups for providing or developing the hydrophilic character, lubricity and filling properties of the emulsions. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach The produced softeners were applied to the 100 percent cotton-knitted fabrics at different concentrations (owf%). In the first part of the study, the produced silicone emulsions were characterized via particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential and TGA analyses. In addition, the effects of these emulsions on the mechanical properties of the fabrics were examined by bursting strength and pilling tests, and also the whiteness degrees (Berger value) of fabrics were researched. In the second part of the study, the effects of produced silicone softeners on the comfort properties of the fabrics were investigated. Findings According to the results, it was possible to say that the additives could be successfully added to the silicone emulsions, and they did not have a crucial effect on the properties of the emulsions or the mechanical and whiteness properties of the fabrics. Research limitations/implications In this study, the additives were used as single form in the softeners recipes; however, their dual or trio combinations and/or their different concentrations could be used in the softeners emulsions. Practical implications In order to enhance the hydrophilic character, the lubricity and filling properties of the silicone softeners, they could be produced by using appropriate additives. Originality/value The contribution of the additives to the recipes of the silicone softeners is a novel approach.