TYPES OF TEXTILE SOFTENERS

There are many textile softeners depending on their chemical structure and specialized needs. Here are some of the common softeners used in the textile processing industry:

Non-ionic Softeners

Non-ionic softeners are less effective than anionic or cationic softening agents, and they remain stable in the presence of cations, anions and work in hard water. They don't bear any charge to be used for forced applications like padding. 

Anionic Softeners

Easy to wash off, Anionic softeners can be used at normal textile processing temperatures and are compatible with other dyes and bleach bath components. Made by condensation of fatty acid, they are excellent lubricating softening agents and give the fabric a full-bodied feel. They are inelastic in acid and hard water, and they also provide strong antistatic and good re-wetting effects. They are used in special applications such as medical textiles.

Cationic Softeners

Cationic Softeners are suitable for all types and can also be used in an acid environment with exhaustion (pH 4-5). These softeners tend to alter dye toning or reduce fastness when reactive and direct dyes are present.

They are easy to wash and can be used by exhaustion on all fibers in a high liquor-to-goods ratio bath.

Silicone-based Softeners 

Silicone-based Softeners are insoluble in water and must be applied to fabrics after emulsification and dissolution in organic solvents. They are easy to wash and provide a smooth hand lubrication and moderately waterproof surface.

They provide high sewability, elastic resilience, and crease recovery effects. They are durable and stable at high temperatures. They have a wide range of properties, from hydrophilic to hydrophobic.