Archroma, a global leader in specialty chemicals towards sustainable solutions, launched SILIGEN D2W LIQ C, the industry’s first truly durable silicone softener for cellulosic as well as cotton-lycra blended knits.

Designed to keep the fabric soft and elastic for an extended usage, it is ideal for textile and fashion applications where long-lasting comfort and breathability are important, from undergarments and sleepwear to baby and children’s clothing, dresses and trousers, activewear, T-shirts and towels.

Dhirendra Gautam, VP Global Marketing and Strategy, Archroma, said, “Archroma is committed to innovation that furthers our planet conscious vision of the future of the apparel and textile industry. As our brand partners increasingly design for longevity, they want to offer garments that remain luxurious and comfortable to wear over a longer life. SILIGEN® D2W LIQ C is a breakthrough innovation that enables a new approach to softening. By enhancing both durability and cotton hand feel, it reduces the need for frequent replacement of garments to conserve resources, minimize waste and lessen the environmental impact of the industry.”

SILIGEN D2W LIQ C is based on a new patent-pending chemistry from Archroma called micro-x. It is a cross-linkable microemulsion that forms a stable silicone network within the cellulosic fibers, ensuring more uniform distribution of the softener and locking it in to maintain softness over time while bringing wash-resistance.

In addition to developing the new silicone softener, the Archroma researchers also had to find a way to measure the durability of hand feel in an objective way.

“Handfeel was previously evaluated through human perception and expert opinion, but this does not align with our efforts to improve the transparency of the textile value chain and support mills and brands in meeting their sustainability goals,” Michael Schuhmann, Global Marketing Manager Finishing, Archroma Textile Effects, said. “We discovered that we can measure the elastic recovery added to the knitted fabric by the silicone finish and track it through multiple launderings to prove its durability. This enables mills and brands to more accurately quantify handfeel durability for the first time.”