(September 21, 2026) There have been continuous developments in technology within the domestic silicone additives industry. Polyether-modified silicone oils, thanks to their dual-ionic molecular structure, are gaining increasing market share in industries such as coatings, textiles, personal care products, and new polyurethane materials. Domestic manufacturers are also making progress in replacing imported products in high-end markets.

Polyether silicone oils are functional modified silicone oils that contain polyether chains as their main structural units. They combine the low surface tension and lubricity characteristics of silicone compounds with the hydrophilic emulsification properties of polyether chains. These oils can mix well with polar substances like water and alcohols, and they are one of the most widely used surface modification agents in the silicone industry. By adjusting the EO/PO ratio and the length of the siloxane chain, companies can produce different types of products with various properties, such as hydrophilic, low-foam, and acid-resistant characteristics, thereby meeting the needs of various production scenarios.

In the field of coatings and inks, polyether silicone oils serve as wetting and leveling agents for water-based paints, wood paints, and industrial inks. They reduce surface tension, improve the spreading of the paint film, eliminate defects such as voids and pinholes, and provide both good leveling effects and re-coating capabilities. They are therefore essential additives in water-based, environmentally friendly coatings. In the textile industry, these oils are used as hydrophilic and softening agents, providing a smooth feel to fabrics while maintaining their breathability and sweat absorption properties. This helps address the problem of hydrophobicity associated with traditional silicone oils, and they are widely used in home textiles and clothing treatment. In the polyurethane foam industry, polyether silicone oils act as foam stabilizers, controlling the nucleation and growth of foam cells, stabilizing the foam structure, and improving its uniformity and mechanical properties. In the personal care sector, low-irritation versions are used in washing and skincare formulations as emulsifiers and skin feel regulators. Additionally, they can be used as pesticides adhesion promoters, industrial cleaning agents, and leather smoothness enhancers.

Industry experts say that this year, fluctuations in the prices of upstream silicone monomers and propylene oxide raw materials, along with stricter environmental regulations, have led to the elimination of smaller production facilities. As a result, industry concentration has increased further. Leading domestic manufacturers have built new continuous production lines in recent years, which significantly reduce the use of organic solvents and emissions compared to traditional batch processes. They have also developed low-VOC, low-metal-ions-containing eco-friendly polyether silicone oil products, suitable for high-demand applications such as new energy slurries and precision cleaning. This is helping them break the long-term monopoly held by foreign brands in high-end markets.

Looking at market trends, the global polyether silicone oil market continues to grow steadily. The trends toward water-based formulations, lower carbon emissions, and environmentally friendly formulations are driving demand for low-foam, biodegradable polyether silicone oils. The expanding markets of new energy, eco-friendly coatings, high-end textiles, and personal care products create opportunities for growth. However, developing high-end customized products and ensuring batch stability remain areas where domestic manufacturers need to continue improving.

Industry experts predict that as the domestic silicone industry chain becomes more efficient, the proportion of domestically produced polyether silicone oils will continue to increase. Competition among manufacturers will shift from basic, general products to customized formulations and technical services for specific applications. Green, high-performance modified silicone oils will become a key growth area in the new segment of silicone materials.