Molecular interactions between nonlinear polyether silicone oil and its composite and their effects on nylon fabric handle style

To investigate the different handle style characteristics and mechanisms of branched polyether-modified silicone softeners (BPS) and their composites on nylon fabrics, the thermal properties, particle size distribution, zeta potential of the samples and their elemental distribution on polyamide surface were systematically analyzed. The molecular interactions between nonlinear BPS and linear polyether-modified silicone softeners (SPS) and their effects on fabric handle styles were explored. Results revealed that hydrophilic-modified BPS exhibited a significant vertical arrangement of different polymer molecules or their respective chain segments within the polymer coating on the surface of nylon fiber (vertical gradient distribution). In BPS/SPS composite emulsions, their molecular entanglement promoted the appeal of ‘molecular fusion’ characteristics, which contributed to the uniform vertical gradient distribution of softener molecules on hydrophobic surfaces. This allows performance adjustment of composites via physical blending, providing a practical strategy for modifying traditional silicone softeners.