Silicones in Textile Applications

Silicones in Textile Applications

Last month, pop artist Doja Cat performed at Coachella – you may think, where is this going? Well, she was actually covered head to toe in silicone! The futurist and eye-catching outfit she wore led us to think about how much silicone is used within the Textiles and Fashion industry. In the year 2024, many fashion brands are taking costume design to the next level. As you can see with the outfit Doja Cat wore (image below) made by Natasha Zinko.

Why is Silicone being used more often within Textiles?

Silicone in general has many benefits, especially when used in the textile industry. Without thinking of the manufacturing uses silicone can have in a textile factory (like sewing thread lubrication, foam control agents during textile pretreatment and dyeing process). It can also be used for the clothing itself. Not only is it heat resistant and water repellent, but it can be emulsified to create a softer finish, as well as having the ability to stretch or become a more breathable fabric.

So, is it good that Silicone has a more prominent stance in the textile industry?

Absolutely! Adding silicone into the creation and manufacturing process massively improves the quality of fabric being used by being more durable, this has a positive effect on both the manufacturer and customer.

“Consumers are benefited with silicone based textiles as it gives long lasting comfort and performance. Moreover, silicone technology is also capable of facing the harsh industrial challenges.

Today, if one goes to buy denim, one can be sure to find denim that will give the feel of absolute comfort and fit, such is the effect of silicone on textiles.” – Fibre2Fashion

Earlier this year, Natalie Portman was also pictured wearing an outfit completely constructed from silicone at the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards, inspired by Pierre Balmain’s ‘signature flower’.

Silicone 3D Printing has also had a surge in recent years, seeing both the textile and 3d printing industries merge to create this garment is very interesting, and shows what innovations can be created using silicone.

As industry experts explore the vast possibilities of silicone in textiles, it’s evident that this trend is set to reshape the future of fashion. The fusion of silicone technology with 3D printing further shows potential for revolutionary advancements in fashion.

RELATED ARTICLES

Q&A with Clwyd Compounders’ Rubber Technologist,  Nithin Sebastian Kuncheria

Q&A with Clwyd Compounders’ Rubber Technologist, Nithin Sebastian Kuncheria

1. What sparked your interest in this particular field, and what continues to drive your passion for it? My introduction to the rubber industry was somewhat coincidental—it began during a summer internship during my undergraduate studies. I quickly became fascinated by the world of elastomers, where I saw the potential to apply many of my […]

Read More
Q&A with Wackers Dr. Christian Anger and Dr. Christiane Baer

Q&A with Wackers Dr. Christian Anger and Dr. Christiane Baer

1. What sparked your interest in this particular field, and what continues to drive your passion for it? Transmission and distribution of electrical energy is fundamentally essential for our modern society. My personal motivation is to contribute to that industry. 2. Can you provide a concise summary of the key takeaways attendees can expect to […]

Read More
Q&A with 3Deus Dynamics Julien Barthes

Q&A with 3Deus Dynamics Julien Barthes

1. What sparked your interest in this particular field, and what continues to drive your passion for it? Our ambition is to show that 3D printing is not just a prototyping tool, but also a fully-fledged production tool for high added-value parts for cutting-edge industries. 2. Your presentation at Silicone Expo Europe is titled “Silicone […]

Read More