Daiwa Chemical Industries Co., Ltd.
SR moisture-retaining agent based on phospholipid-containing polymer Skinsoft 415 New

Polymer used in artificial blood vessels improves moisture-retaining and SR effects

(Interview by textileinfo editorial)

Nakamura:

S. Nakamura general manager of the R&D Dept. Skinsoft 415 New is composed mainly of a polymer containing phospholipid, which is the same substance as that found in skin. This polymer is also used in artificial blood vessels. Skinsoft 415 New is therefore a safe textile finishing agent in terms of effects on the human body. Moisture-retaining effects and the prevention of blemished skin can be expected from garments treated with Skinsoft 415 New. Furthermore, because of the polymer being water-soluble, it produces superior SR (soil release), anti-browning and antistatic effects. In addition, the simultaneous use of Sweet Softener AN, developed exclusively for use with Skinsoft 415 New, will improve SR effects and produce a comfortable hand.

Q:	I understand that the main component polymer of Skinsoft 415 New has the same structure as that used in artificial blood vessels. Can you explain that a little more in detail?

Nishioka:	K. Nishioka of the R&D Dept. The main component of Skinsoft 415 New is a material that can be used in the synthesis of artificial cell membrane. Skinsoft is made of a water-soluble polymer which consists of 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) with phosphatidylcholine polar groups. That is the same substance as that found in skin. Fig. 1 shows the structure.
	Fig. 1 Skinsoft structure diagram (click to enlarge)

Q:	I see. That explains how it is safe for the human body. Is this why the possibility of causing allergic reactions is low in garments treated with this agent?

Otsuki:

T. Otsuki assistant general manager of the R&D Dept. Yes. Unlike agents made of natural ingredients, Skinsoft does not contain substances which are not accounted for. Therefore, the possibility of causing allergic reactions is low. Moreover, as it is chemically inert and does not react with other components, it is free of concerns for alteration in color or quality even after a long period of storage. It produces superior moisture-retaining effects, the main component being a polymer that contains a substance which is a constituent of the skin, phospholipid. In addition, it protects the skin by forming a hydrous film.

Q:	How much of a moisture-retaining effect is expected?

Nishioka:	We have conducted a moisture-retaining properties test, using the Japan Chemical Fibers Association test method. Fig. 2 shows the result.
	Fig. 2 Moisture-retaining property testing
	The moisture-retaining properties of cotton knit, both treated with Skinsoft 415 New/Sweet Softener AN and untreated, were compared before and after 10 launderings. The treated fabric displayed hardly any difference in its moisture-retaining properties before or after 10 launderings

Q:	What kind of fibers are subject to treatment with Skinsoft 415 New?

Otsuki:

It is good with cotton and polyester/cotton blends.

Q:	Superior SR properties have been claimed. Do you have any data on that?

Nishioka:	We have conducted a SR properties test using the Japan Chemical Fibers Association test method. Fig. 3 shows the result.
	Fig. 3 SR property evaluation results (click to enlarge)
	There is more than a degree difference between the SR properties of the cotton knit treated with Skinsoft 415 New/Sweet Softener AN and that which is untreated, before as well as after 3 launderings. Figures indicating SR properties of more than a degree higher than the untreated are almost impossible to find in various SR agents that have been made available on the market. That's where Daiwa Chemical takes pride in introducing Skinsoft 415 New in combination with Sweet Softener AN.

Q:	We can see superior SR properties are displayed in fabric treated with Skinsoft 415 New in combination with Sweet Softener than in that treated only with Skinsoft 415 New.

Otsuki:

The simultaneous use of Skinsoft 415 New and Sweet Softener will produce comfortable hand and further improve SR properties. Let me once again explain the details of Skinsoft 415 New.

Details of Skinsoft 415 New

>>Description

>>Subject fiber

Cotton, polyester/cotton

>>Directions for use

1. The amount used: 3-7% soln.

2. The processing method: padding
   (Example of use)
   Substrate (cotton knit)/Skinsoft 415 New 5% soln./Sweet Softener AN 1.5% soln.
   Pick-up (80%) → Drying → Curing (150-160°C) x 2-3 min.

>>Handling instructions

• Compatibility should be verified before use by testing fastness levels and conducting preliminary tests.

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• The use of softeners may have adverse effects on SR properties, depending on the kind used. Compatibility should be verified before use by conducting preliminary tests.

>>Packaging

17kg, oil can