The mechanism by which silicone oil enhances the waterproof effect in coatings is mainly based on its low surface energy, film-forming properties, and chemical stability. The specific mode of action is as follows:
1. Reduce surface energy
Silicone oil has the characteristic of low surface energy, which can significantly reduce the wettability of the coating surface. When the coating is applied to the surface of the substrate, the presence of silicone oil makes it difficult for water molecules to spread and penetrate on the coating surface, thereby forming a waterproof effect. This low surface energy characteristic is similar to the lotus leaf effect, causing water droplets to form droplets on the coating surface and slide off instead of being absorbed.

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2. Form a dense waterproof membrane
Silicone oil can form a dense waterproof film in coatings through chemical reactions or physical interactions. For example, hydrogen containing silicone oil can crosslink on the surface of the substrate under the action of metal salt catalysts to form an insoluble waterproof film. This type of membrane not only blocks the penetration of moisture, but also maintains the breathability of the substrate, making it suitable for waterproof treatment of various building materials and fabrics.


3. Improve the durability of the coating
The chemical stability of silicone oil enables it to maintain its performance unchanged in complex environments. It enhances the weather resistance and chemical corrosion resistance of the coating by forming a stable network structure with other components in the coating. This stability is crucial for the waterproof effect of coatings during long-term use, especially in environments with high humidity or frequent contact with water.


4. Improve the uniformity and adhesion of the coating
The addition of silicone oil can improve the coating performance and make the coating more uniform. At the same time, it can enhance the adhesion between the coating and the substrate, preventing the coating from peeling off due to moisture penetration. This improvement in uniformity and adhesion further enhances the waterproof performance of the coating.


5. Compound use enhances comprehensive performance
In practical applications, silicone oil is often used in combination with other waterproofing agents (such as organic fluorine compounds) to achieve better waterproofing effects. For example, in the waterproof finishing of fabrics, when silicone oil lotion is mixed with three proofing finishing agents (such as C6 or C8 waterproof agent), although the softness is significantly improved, the waterproof performance can still remain at a high level. This compounding method can not only meet the waterproof requirements, but also endow the coating with other excellent properties such as softness, wear resistance, etc.


6. Application Examples
In architectural coatings, silicone oil reacts chemically with the surface of the substrate to form a breathable waterproof film, which is widely used for waterproof treatment of building materials such as bricks, tiles, and concrete. In fabric waterproof finishing, silicone oil lotion can form a hydrophobic film on the surface of the fabric after being mixed with silicone oil containing hydrogen, giving the fabric good waterproof and softness.


In summary, silicone oil significantly enhances the waterproof effect of coatings by reducing surface energy, forming a dense waterproof film, improving coating durability, and enhancing coating performance through various mechanisms. It is widely used in various fields such as construction, textiles, and plastics