How can silicone oil be used to achieve different fabric feel?

Simply put, by selecting silicone oils of different types, molecular structures, and modified groups, and adjusting the application process parameters, a wide range of hand feels can be achieved, from extremely soft and smooth to elastic, full, and dry.

Below, I will explain in detail the principles, types of silicone oils, and practical methods.

Silicone oil (usually polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS) can alter the hand feel of fabrics primarily due to its unique physical and chemical properties:

Low surface tension:

Silicone oil spreads evenly on the fiber surface, forming an extremely thin molecular film that significantly reduces the coefficient of friction (μ value) between fibers. This is the primary factor contributing to the smooth, soft hand feel.

Molecular chain flexibility:

Siloxane (Si-O) bonds are long and have large bond angles, making the molecular chain highly flexible and able to rotate freely. This gives the silicone oil film excellent flexibility without stiffening the fabric.

Interaction with Fibers:

Through modification, the reactive groups (such as amino and epoxy groups) on the silicone oil molecules can adsorb or bond to the fiber surface, creating a more durable feel.

The difference in feel is fundamentally due to the varying properties of this "film": its thickness, elasticity, smoothness, and how it bonds to the fiber.

If you want to know more details about the fabric hand feel ,please contact us :info@sylicglobal.com