Silicone polyethers, or silicone surfactants, contain both a water-insoluble silicone backbone and a number of water-soluble polyether pendant groups. The ratio of the silicone to polyether, and the molecular weight and composition of the components determine the solubility and specific properties of a product. These products exist as multi-pendant and linear di-functional polymers. Siltech offers a broad range of silicone polyethers as well as custom-designed products for specific applications. These are also available in cosmetic grades, where they are commonly referred to as dimethicone copolyols.
These products are widely used as emulsifiers, foaming agents, solubilizers and softeners. They are also used in many inks and coatings formulations were they add slip, mar resistance and leveling.
