(October 15, 2026) There are positive signs in the field of organic silicon specialty materials. Carbonhydroxy silicone oil, due to its stable C-OH structure, has seen a continuous increase in its market share in downstream industries such as polyurethane, epoxy, coatings, and synthetic leather. It has become a key functional ingredient for high-end resin modification processes. The growth of domestic production capacity and technological advancements has further accelerated the process of replacing imported products.

Carbonhydroxy silicone oil, also known as carbonhydroxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, is a colorless, transparent oily liquid. The active C-OH groups at both ends of the molecule are connected by Si-C bonds. Unlike traditional silicone oils that rely on Si-O-C bonds for modification, carbonhydroxy silicone oil can react with isocyanates, epoxy groups, and carboxyl groups, thereby incorporating silicon oxide chains into the molecular structure of resins through chemical bonds rather than simple physical mixing. This approach addresses the common problems associated with traditional silicone oils, such as easy migration, precipitation, and poor hydrolysis resistance. After modification, the resulting materials exhibit better weather resistance, wear resistance, and flexibility at low temperatures.

In the polyurethane industry, carbonhydroxy silicone oil is used as a reactive soft segment modifier. It is widely applied in water-based polyurethane, artificial leather, PU foam materials, and elastomers. After adding this modifier, the PU coating provides a smooth and durable feel, while also improving waterproofing properties. It also enhances the breathability of fabrics, making it suitable for high-end synthetic leather and outdoor textiles. In industrial coatings, this material is used in automotive coatings, sheet coatings, and anti-corrosion topcoats. It improves the smoothness of the coating surface, resistance to stains and UV damage, and reduces the formation of microcracks under thermal shock conditions. In the textile industry, it can be used to produce hydrophilic organic silicone softeners, providing long-lasting softness, moisture absorption, sweat absorption, and antistatic properties to fabrics, overcoming the disadvantages of conventional silicone oils, which are hydrophobic and difficult to clean. In addition, carbonhydroxy silicone oil is also being used in epoxy toughening and cosmetic moisturizing agents.

Industry analysis indicates that with the upgrading of domestic new material industries, downstream customers have increasing demands for long-term stability, hydrolysis resistance, and high quality of resins. This has led to a steady increase in demand for carbonhydroxy silicone oil. In the past, high-end products relied heavily on foreign supplies. However, in recent years, domestic silicone companies have continuously improved their synthesis processes, maintaining stable levels of hydroxyl value, viscosity, and volatile components. As a result, they are able to produce a wide range of carbonhydroxy silicone oils, with product quality matching international standards. This has shortened delivery times and reduced the raw material costs for domestic new material companies.

Industry experts believe that with the continued development of new energy, high-end equipment, and environmentally friendly coatings industries, the market for reactive organic silicone additives will expand further. Manufacturers of carbonhydroxy silicone oil will continue to develop customized molecular weights and hydroxyl value options, providing appropriate solutions for different resin systems. This will help improve the quality of products in the polyurethane, coatings, and leather industries, while also enhancing the competitiveness of domestic modified silicone oil exports in foreign markets.