Water Soluble Silicone Oil IOTA 1291 is a specialized organosilicone surfactant known for its unique combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. This product represents a significant advancement in silicone technology, offering versatility and performance across a diverse range of industrial applications. Its defining characteristic is its inherent water solubility, which eliminates the need for emulsification and simplifies its integration into various water-based formulations.

Chemically, IOTA 1291 is classified as a polyether modified polymethylsiloxane. This molecular structure is the key to its functionality. It effectively combines a hydrophilic organic polyether chain with a highly hydrophobic polysiloxane polymer backbone. This dual nature allows the molecule to act as a powerful surfactant, significantly reducing surface tension and providing excellent wetting and spreading capabilities. The product is fully miscible with water in any ratio and is also soluble in common solvents like ethanol and acetone, enhancing its ease of use.

The physicochemical profile of IOTA 1291 is well-defined. It typically appears as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid. At 25°C, it possesses a density of approximately 1.030 g/cm³ and a kinematic viscosity ranging between 500 and 1500 centistokes. Its refractive index falls between 1.448 and 1.458. A key indicator of its surfactant behavior is its cloud point, which is around 42°C for a 1% aqueous solution. Most importantly, it demonstrates a very low surface tension of 23 mN/m, which is a primary driver of its performance benefits. It is supplied as a 100% active ingredient.

The performance characteristics of IOTA 1291 are extensive. It delivers low surface tension, good hydrophilicity, antistatic properties, and a characteristically soft, smooth feel. It also offers excellent permeability. These properties translate directly into its wide array of applications.

In the textile industry, IOTA 1291 serves as a highly effective fabric finishing agent. Fabrics treated with this silicone oil become soft, smooth, and comfortable to the touch. They also achieve a crisp texture and improved dimensional stability. Within the personal care and cosmetics sector, its good water solubility and surface activity allow it to form a uniform, breathable protective film on the skin and hair. This makes the skin feel soft and smooth and provides outstanding dry and wet combability for hair care products.

The leather processing industry utilizes IOTA 1291 as a primary component in high-grade leather slip agents and finishing agents. It imparts a smooth, bright, and soft hand feel to various types of leather, significantly enhancing the final product's quality. Furthermore, in industrial applications, it is valued in waterborne coatings, acrylic adhesives, and inks. Here, it improves the system's liquidity and acts as a spreading and leveling agent, leading to a more uniform and glossy surface finish.

Usage recommendations vary by application. For general water-based systems, an addition rate of 0.5% to 1.0% is typical. For specific requirements, such as in anti-sticking release coatings, a higher concentration of 2% to 4% may be necessary. The product is commonly packaged in standard containers such as 50kg, 120kg, or 200kg plastic drums, ensuring safe and efficient handling and storage. Its combination of effective performance and user-friendly properties makes it a valuable additive in numerous manufacturing processes.