INTRODUCTION

Silicone emulsions typically contain a silicone component (usually a silicone oil), water and the required emulsifiers to obtain a stable emulsion. From the chemistry perspective, a silicone component is a finite chain of silicone and oxygen atoms bonded one to each other. Besides of these bonds, silicone itself has two other bonds to organic groups. In most cases, these components are methyl groups (CH3) that provide to the silicone component its characteristic semi-organic behaviour.

MACRO & MICRO EMULSIONS

Silicone emulsions are commonly grouped into two types based on particle size.

SILICONE MACROEMULSIONS

  • White appearance, stable emulsions with different % of silicone content
  • Typical average particle size = 0.1 to 1 micron
  • They can contain up to 60% silicone content
  • They can be formulated using silicone oil with different viscosities, being the most common 350cps and 1000 cps
  • Once applied, when water has been evaporated, the silicone remains on external surfaces, where they offer benefits like the reduction of the dynamic coefficient of friction, providing a lubricating effect

SILICONE MICROEMULSIONS

  • Translucent appearance, very stable in extreme conditions.
  • Very small average particle size (< 0,4 micron)

  • The silicone oil is usually a very high viscosity type (>100000 cps)

ADVANTAGES

  • Good thermal and dilution stability 

  • Compatible with anionic and non-ionic soaps/surfactants. Easy application, non-yellowing after time 

  • Good surface wetting characteristics 

  • High gloss and colour intensity
  • Good slip and abrasion characteristics

  • Provides natural handle to fabric
  • Can be used as a thread lubricant to reduce needle temperature, and wear and thread breakage

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