Wacker launches new textile finishing emulsion
Munich-based chemicals group Wacker has developed a new silicone softener emulsion for textile finishing. The concentrate, Powersoft PE 150, is self-dispersing and designed for use in exhaust processes. High shear-resistance makes it versatile and usable in high-speed finishing processes.
It is a microemulsion concentrate based on aminofunctional silicone fluids, which bestows a silky-soft feel on textiles made from natural, synthetic and blended fibres. Unlike standard silicone softeners, it does not affect colour. The concentrate can be diluted with cold tap water as required without turning cloudy and there is no need to add an emulsifier. Compared with conventional silicone-based softeners, it is said to be stable when exposed to shear forces so can be used in high-speed finishing processes.
The solution also offers high fibre affinity, which makes it suitable for exhausting. In low concentrations the softener is practically entirely absorbed onto the fibres, while the residual liquor, which must be disposed of as effluent, is almost silicone-free.
The product is particularly well suited for finishing knitwear, as these fabrics – due to their poor shape retention – are mostly treated by exhaust processes.
