New Silicone Alloy for Durable Water Repellency on Cotton

Abstract

A new silicone alloy made by the simultaneous polymerization of tetravinyl silane and methyl hydrogen siloxane using benzoyl peroxide as a catalyst and methyl isobutyl ketone as a solvent is an excellent water repellent for cotton fabrics as measured by AATCC spray ratings. The treatment is very resistant to soap and detergent action. The alloy may be applied from organic solvents or aqueous emulsions. Greater permanence to laundering was obtained by the solvent method. Best results were obtained by first depositing ZrO2 in the fabric by double decomposition using a zirconium salt and sodium hydroxide, then padding with either a methyl isobutyl ketone solution or an aqueous emulsion of the alloy and curing for 5 min. at 145° C. A satisfactory one-step process was also developed by incorporating zirconyl acetate or zirconium butoxicle as catalysts in the treating solution or emulsion. Creaseproofing resins may also be incorporated in the formulation.