(September 8, 2026) New developments have taken place in the domestic new organic silicon materials industry. Several silicon chemical enterprises have successfully implemented continuous production lines for high-purity polyether silicone oils with low ring bodies. The new generation of solvent-free polyether-modified silicone oils can now be supplied in bulk, marking a further acceleration in the process of replacing imported high-end products in the field of polyether silicone oils within China.

Polyether silicone oils are important functional additives in organic silanes. By incorporating polyether chains within the siloxane main linkage structure, they combine the lubricating properties of organic silanes, low surface tension, and hydrophilic compatibility characteristics of polyethers. They are widely used in water-based coatings, personal care products, textile dyeing, polyurethane foams, pesticide application, and new energy-related applications. They are essential key materials in the fine chemical industry chain.

Industry research shows that the domestic polyether silicone oil market currently exhibits significant structural differences: general-purpose products are available in sufficient quantities, with overall operating rates below 75%; however, high-end customized models with low ring body residues, low VOC levels, biodegradability, and resistance to acids and alkalis are in short supply. The transition to water-based coatings in the coating industry, the expansion of domestic beauty products overseas, the improvement of functional fabrics, and the widespread use of pesticide applications all contribute to increasing demand for high-end products. With the implementation of GB/T44258-2025 “Technical Specification for Polyether-Modified Silicone Oils”, strict requirements have been imposed on key indicators such as ring siloxane residues and hydroxyl value. This has raised industry standards, and smaller, less efficient production facilities are being eliminated at an accelerated pace.

The new production line in operation uses a closed-loop solvent-free catalytic synthesis process, which significantly reduces the use of organic solvents and emissions. The ring body residue in the products is kept below 300 ppm, which is better than the national standard limit of 500 ppm. These products can be used in applications requiring high environmental standards, such as mother and child care products, food-contact coatings, and semiconductor cleaning processes. By adjusting the EO/PO ratio and the length of the siloxane chain, various series of products can be produced, including those with hydrophilic properties, low foam formation, and resistance to electrolytes. Their performance is comparable to international mainstream additives, and they offer significant advantages in terms of delivery time and overall cost.

In terms of downstream demand, the coating industry remains the largest consumer of polyether silicone oils. They are used as wetting and leveling agents, foam suppressants, and to eliminate defects such as shrinkage holes and orange peel effects in paint films. The cosmetics industry focuses on gentle emulsification and improving skin feel. The textile industry utilizes them for creating hydrophilic and soft fabrics. The polyurethane industry uses them as foam stabilizers. In agriculture, they act as pesticide application aids, enhancing the penetration ability of pesticides. All these areas contribute to the growth of the industry. It is predicted that in 2026, the total market size of polyether silicone oils in China will exceed 5.2 billion yuan, with a growth rate of over 7% compared to previous years. The global market will also maintain a stable upward trend.

Industry analysts say that the future development of the industry will focus on three main areas: first, green and low-carbon practices; solvent-free production processes and bio-based polyether silicone oils will gradually increase their adoption rate. Second, molecular customization – developing specialized products for different applications, shifting from selling generic materials to providing application solutions. Third, deeper domestic substitution – gaining a larger share of the high-end additive markets previously dominated by foreign brands. Companies also need to pay attention to carbon footprint and compliance with domestic and international standards, meeting the requirements of foreign customers such as REACH and K-REACH, in order to facilitate product exports.

However, the industry faces challenges. Prices for ordinary products are highly competitive, while high-end products require advanced synthesis processes, batch stability, and testing capabilities. Companies must continue to invest in research and development, establishing a closed loop from synthesis to application and feedback, in order to capitalize on the opportunities presented by emerging downstream markets.