What are the classifications of fabric softeners?

A softening agent  is a type of chemical substance that can alter the static and dynamic friction coefficients of fibers. When the static friction coefficient is modified, the tactile feel becomes smooth, allowing for easier movement across the fibers or fabric. When the dynamic friction coefficient is adjusted, the microstructure between fibers facilitates mutual movement, meaning the fibers or fabric are more prone to deformation. The combined sensation of these effects is what we perceive as softness.

Softening agents can be classified by their ionic properties into four types: cationic, nonionic, anionic, and amphoteric.

Commonly Used Softening Agents Include:​

1. Silicone-Based Softeners​

These softeners provide excellent smoothness and slip, but their major drawback is their high cost, which increases production expenses. Additionally, they tend to cause oil migration and silicone spotting during use, making them unsuitable for long-term development in the increasingly competitive modern industrial landscape.

2. Fatty Acid Salt Softeners (Softening Flakes)​

These primarily consist of fatty acid salts and are relatively easy to use. However, they require large quantities, leading to higher costs, which do not align with the demand for reducing overall expenses and improving industrial profitability.

3. D1821​

The biggest disadvantages of this type of softener are its poor biodegradability and evere yellowing. With growing public awareness and stricter domestic and international environmental standards, such products can no longer meet the demands of sustainable development.

4. Esterquaternary Ammonium Salts (TEQ-90)

These softeners offer stable softening performance, require minimal usage, and stand out for their excellent biodegradability. They also provide multiple benefits, including softness, antistatic properties, fluffiness, anti-yellowing, and antibacterial disinfection. It can be said that this type of softening agent represents the dominant trend in the future of the softening industry.