Functionally active silicones as modifiers of polyurethane textile coatings and cast films

Modification of application and service properties of polyurethane textile coatings and cast polyurethane films using polysiloxanes (functionally active silicones) have been studied. Experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of silicon additives on processing, adhesion, water repellence, and resistance to tea and coffee stains of the polyurethane nylon and polyester-cotton textiles. The tear force and tensile strength properties of polyurethane cast films containing the silicones were also studied. Three brands of silicones, DC-1248, X2-70 81 and Q4-3667, were used as additives at various concentrations in the polyurethane system. The polyurethane-silicone systems coated directly on nylon and on polyester-cotton textiles, and as cast film, were found to exhibit better surface finish, improved resistance to stains, higher water repellence, greater tear force and higher tensile strength, as compared to the polyurethane system without the additives. The silicone, DC-1248, was found to exhibit the best characteristics for enhancing the overall application and service properties of polyurethane textile coatings and cast films. Journal of Applied Science and Technology (JAST), Vol. 7, Nos. 1 & 2, 2002, pp. 14 – 1