Fundamental aspects of aminoalkyl siloxane softeners by molecular modelingand experimental methods

The global textile industry has an ongoing need for improved softening prod ucts. Current materials systems, including those with siloxane polymers, ex hibit certain limitations such as yellowing, high cost, and low softening e fficiency. Investigations into fabric softening mechanisms invoke molecular modeling tools to simulate siloxane polymer and cotton fiber interactions at the molecular level. This research describes how certain polymer types e xhibit fundamentally enhanced siloxane and fiber interactions within partic ular pH ranges. Molecular modeling results are also correlated with empiric al findings. The output of this research adds insight into efforts to under stand fabric softening phenomena.