Tailored multifunctional polysiloxanes as advanced emulsifiers in colloid systems

Abstract

Abstract This study investigates the synthesis, physicochemical characterization, and emulsifying performance of multifunctional polysiloxane modified with trimethoxysilane, eugenol and octane in varying molar ratios. The functionalized organosilicon compounds were synthesized by hydrosilylation and characterized using NMR, FT-IR, thermogravimetric analysis, and contact angle measurements. Their emulsifying properties were evaluated in oil-water emulsions, with stability assessed through centrifugation tests, multiple light scattering, and optical microscopy. The polysiloxane modified with trimethoxysilane: eugenol: octane with a 1:4:3 molar ratio exhibited the highest thermal stability. Emulsions formulated with this compound demonstrated superior physical stability, with backscattering destabilization rates as low as − 0.29%/day, attributed to enhanced interfacial interactions and hydrogen bonding. Emulsion containing polysiloxane modified only with eugenol and octane exhibited the lowest stability, with early phase separation observed after 1.5 h and backscattering rates reaching − 1.06%/day. These results highlight the critical role of silane functionalities in interfacial stabilization. These findings demonstrate the potential of structurally tailored polysiloxanes as advanced emulsifiers for applications in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other industries.