WO2025061880A1

WO2025061880A1 - Organo-functional silicone crosslinker and durable finishing composition formed therefrom

Info

Publication number: WO2025061880A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/076327
Authority: WO
Inventors: Meenal MEHRA; Sanooj NARAYANAN; Chaya M Thakkar PATEL; Rishi Kumar; Raja KALIAPPAN
Original assignee: Archroma Switzerland GmbH
Current assignee: Archroma Switzerland GmbH
Priority date: 2023-09-19
Filing date: 2024-09-19
Publication date: 2025-03-27
Anticipated expiration: 2026-03-19
Also published as: TW202513673A

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of copolymers suitable for textile, more particularly relates to copolymers suitable for textile end finishing products such as softeners. More particularly, the present invention relates to an organo-functional silicone copolymer which results from the polymerization of silicone monomers, trialkoxy silane monomers and amine compounds. The present invention also relates to a composition of said copolymers with other hydrophilic polymers and uses of said copolymers as well as their compositions.

Description

Meissner Bolte 1 M/HTM-262-PC ORGANO-FUNCTIONAL SILICONE CROSSLINKER AND DURABLE FINISHING COMPOSITION FORMED THEREFROM FIELD OF INVENTION The present invention relates to the development of an aqueous emulsion containing organo-functional silicone copolymer with alkoxy/hydroxy terminating groups. Such flexible polymers act as a binder to covalently crosslink with free -OH groups of the substrate and enhance the durability of the coating film. Presence of long chain silicone backbone in the polymer makes it a flexible binder that helps to control over the crosslinking density thereby, not impacting the softness and flexibility of the silicone films on the substrate. The present invention also relates to the development of compositions using this flexible binder in combination with other polymers or additives that covalently binds other hydrophilic silicone softeners and the substrates, bearing free -OH groups such as cellulosic fabric, forming interpenetrated network. This provides good durability of the finishing coating with balanced handfeel and hydrophilic properties until several wash cycles. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Domestic softeners are widely used in everyday life to soften the laundry during washing. It is known that when a cloth or a towel are washed with such domestic softeners, it receives a good softness just after its washing, but this softness will fade as it used and will be totally lost after the washing operation. In the textile industry, softeners also called textile finishing products are used at the end of the manufacture of a textile to provide a good softness to the textile. Contrary to the domestic softeners, the softeners used in the textile industry when applied under the form of an emulsion on the textile, must have a long-lasting softness effect even after several washes. Softeners used as textile finishing products in the textile industry must then exhibit a high durability. Meissner Bolte 2 M/HTM-262-PC In the textile industry, softeners are called textile finishing products that are used at the end of the manufacture of a textile to provide a good softness as well as retain good absorbency to the textile. Existing softeners in the textile industry exhibit such benefits but they fade away after several wash cycles. Hence there is a need of softener finishing products which when applied under the form of an emulsion on the textile, must have a long-lasting softness effect even after several washes. Softeners used as textile finishing products in the textile industry must then exhibit high durability. Various silicone block copolymers and their emulsions thereof, has been explored as hydrophilic softeners on various type of fabrics. Amine functional end blocking has advantageous for the treatment of textiles or fibers. However, owing to weak ionic interactions these softeners are not retained on the substrates after several washing conditions. WO 97/32917, US 8,013,097 B2; US 6,475,568 B1 To enhance durability of polymers on the fabric substrates US 4,536,422 and US 4,618,512 discloses the use of formaldehyde based additives such as with urea, cyclic urea, carbamate esters or with other amides as crosslinking agents to impart smooth- dry and flame retardant properties to synthetic to Cellulose blend fabrics. However, such durability solutions are limited because of major concern associated with continuously releasing formaldehyde vapors. In prior art, alkoxy silanes has been well known as binders to enhance mechanical strength or durability of the film coated on to the substrates and provide hydrophobicity. Increase in the hardness of the coating and hydrophobicity is mainly due to extensive crosslinking of di/tri alkoxy groups of molecular silane groups. US8481668B2 discloses that functional alkoxy silane has been advantageously employed to improve the bonding of sealants/adhesives/coatings. In US20090030148A1, to enhance surface smoothness and softness to various materials, aqueous emulsions bearing linear siloxane copolymer of linear silicone and alkoxy organo-functional silanes has been developed as a partially crosslinked system. Meissner Bolte 3 M/HTM-262-PC Therefore, there is a need for a polymer suitable for textile end finishing product, having a good durability and exhibiting simultaneously improved soft handfeel, and maintains acceptable hydrophilicity properties while having an acceptable viscosity, thereby allowing an easier handling by the manufacturer. In past, aminosilicones has been well known for very high handfeel and wash durability up to several wash cycles. However, they do not exhibit good water absorbency. Hence retaining softener properties of the silicone polymers after several wash cycles along with water absorbency has been a key challenge for silicone softeners till date. An object of the present invention is to provide a polymer overcoming all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks. To overcome this challenge, organo-functional silicone emulsion has been developed as a flexible binder that enables covalent binding of hydrophilic silicone softeners and cellulosic substrates forming interpenetrated network. Thereby, textile treated with the composition comprising of the binder polymer according to the invention exhibit durable softness after several wash cycles. Another object of the present invention is to provide a composition for treating a textile comprising of the flexible binder polymer according to the invention which exhibit simultaneously excellent hydrophilicity property and improved soft handfeel property after several wash cycles. The term “consists essentially of” followed by one or more characteristics, means that may be included in the process or the material of the invention, besides explicitly listed components or steps, components or steps that do not materially affect the properties and characteristics of the invention. The expression “comprised between X and Y” includes boundaries, unless explicitly stated otherwise. This expression means that the target range includes the X and Y values, and all values from X to Y. Meissner Bolte 4 M/HTM-262-PC Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprise” and “contain” and variations of the words, for example “comprising” and “comprises”, mean “including but not limited to”, and do not exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires: in particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise. Where upper and lower limits are quoted for a property, for example for the concentration of a component, then a range of values defined by a combination of any of the upper limits with any of the lower limits may also be implied. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention concerns an organo-functional silicone copolymer resulting from the copolymerization of: - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one trialkoxy silane monomer, and - at least one amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups. The invention also concerns a method for preparing a copolymer according to any of foregoing claims comprising at least one polymerization step a) in which at least the following are brought into contact in a solvent: - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one trialkoxy silane with at least one functional epoxy or amino group, and - at least one amine with at least 2 functional amine groups. The invention further concerns an aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension comprising a) the organo-functional silicone copolymer b) at least one nonionic surfactant, and c) at least one weak protic acid. Meissner Bolte 5 M/HTM-262-PC The invention further concerns a composition comprising the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension as described above and at least one hydrophilic polymer. Moreover, the invention concerns the use of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension as described above or the composition as described above in treating textile for improving simultaneously the soft handfeel and the hydrophilicity after several wash cycles of said textile. The invention also concerns a textile treated with the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension as described above or with the composition as describe above. Finally, the invention relates to a method for treating a textile comprising the application of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention or the composition according to the invention to a textile. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Organo-functional silicone copolymer The invention concerns organo-functional silicone copolymer resulting from the copolymerization of: - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one trialkoxy silane with at least one functional epoxy or amino group, and - at least one amine with at least 2 functional amine groups. In particular, the invention concerns organo-functional silicone copolymer resulting from the reaction of a silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups with a diamine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups to obtain a reaction product and further reaction of said reaction product with a trialkoxy silane with at least one functional epoxy or amino group. Meissner Bolte 6 M/HTM-262-PC The organo-functional silicone copolymer emulsion according to the invention, when applied on textile, makes it possible to obtain a textile having improved soft handfeel properties until 10 or more wash cycles. The organo-functional silicone copolymer emulsion according to the invention, when applied on textile in form of a composition with other hydrophilic additives or polymers, makes it possible to obtain a textile having simultaneously improved handfeel and hydrophilic properties until 10 or more wash cycles. By “copolymer” is meant an oligomer or a linear or branched macromolecule having a sequence constituted by several repeating units (or monomer units) of which at least two units have a different chemical structure. By “linear” is meant a polymer or copolymer consists of a single continuous chain of repeating units. The covalently bonded atoms form the backbone of the polymer, which can be optionally substituted by one or more alkyl groups comprising less than 10 carbon atoms, preferably comprising between 1 and 8 carbon atoms, more preferably comprising between 1 and 4 carbon atoms. By “monomer unit” or “monomer” is meant a molecule that can be converted to an oligomer or a macromolecule by combining with itself or with other molecules of the same type. A monomer denotes the smallest constituent unit the repetition of which leads to an oligomer or a macromolecule. By “random copolymer” is meant an oligomer or a macromolecule in which the sequential distribution of the monomer units obeys known statistical laws. For example, a copolymer is said to be random when it is constituted by monomer units the distribution of which is a Markov distribution. The distribution of the monomer units in the polymer chain depends on the reactivity of the polymerizable functions of the monomers and the relative concentration of the monomers. The organo-functional silicone copolymers of the invention are different from block copolymers and gradient copolymers. By “block” is meant a part of a copolymer comprising several monomer units, identical or different and which have at least one particular feature of constitution Meissner Bolte 7 M/HTM-262-PC or of configuration by which it can be distinguished from the parts adjacent to it. A gradient copolymer denotes a copolymer with at least two monomer units of different structures the monomer composition of which changes gradually along the polymer chain, thus passing progressively from one end of the polymer chain rich in one monomer unit, to the other end rich in the other comonomer. According to the invention, the terms “copolymer”, “random linear copolymer” and “linear copolymer” refer all to the copolymer according to the invention and can be interchangeably used. By “copolymerization” or “polymerization” is meant a process for converting a mixture of at least two monomer units of different chemical structures into an oligomer or a copolymer. According to the invention, the terms “copolymerization” and “polymerization” have the same meaning and can be interchangeable. In an embodiment, the copolymer according to the invention is suitable for textile. More preferably, the copolymer according to the invention is suitable for textile end finishing product such as softeners. As used herein, the terms “textile” and “textile materials” have to be interpreted broad and can be in a very wide range of forms of presentations, for example, in the form of fibers, yarns, fabrics, garments, knits, towels, wovens and non-wovens. The copolymers according to the invention are suitable for treating a wide variety of textile materials. The textile according to the present invention can be a natural (non-synthetic) cellulose-based textiles such as cotton, silk, wool, linen and hemp, or a synthetic textile material such as polyamides, polyurethanes, polyacrylics, polyesters, polyolefines, polylactide, or also blends of natural textile material with synthetic textile material such as blends of cotton and polyester fibres or polyamide fibres. Advantageously, the copolymers of the invention when applied on textile, provide an excellent soft handfeel property to the textile until several wash cycles. Thereby providing durability of the finishing polymer on the fabric. Meissner Bolte 8 M/HTM-262-PC More advantageously, the copolymers according to the invention can be used with all types of textiles, meaning that the copolymers when applied on different textiles, exhibit improved soft handfeel properties until several washes regardless the type of textile on which they are applied. It is well known that the cellulose-based textiles are by nature hydrophilic and that the synthetic textile material such as polyester textile are by nature hydrophobic. As also used herein, the terms “softeners”, “textile finishing products” and “textile end finishing products” have the same meaning and can be interchangeably used. According to the invention, the terms “softeners”, “textile finishing products” and “textile end finishing products” refer to the copolymers according to the invention resulting from the polymerization of silicone monomers, trialkoxy silane monomers and amino compounds and when applied on a textile, the said textile exhibits improved soft handfeel and hydrophilicity properties. As used herein, the terms “soft handfeel” and “softeness” refer to a property of the textile after being treated with the copolymer according to the invention. The soft handfeel of the textile treated with the copolymer according to the invention is a tactile assessment or a hand assessment. The soft handfeel of the treated textiles according to the invention, was done by a hand panel and the tested textiles were ranked from the softest to the harshest (1 being the softest). In an embodiment, the organo-functional silicone copolymer according to the invention has a molar percentage of silicone monomer in said copolymer ranging from 35 to 55 %, preferably 40 to 50 %, more preferably ranging from 42 to 45 %. In a preferred embodiment, the organo-functional silicone copolymer according to the invention has a molar percentage of: - silicone monomer in said copolymer ranging from 35 to 55%, preferably 40 to 50%, more preferably ranging from 42 to 45%. - amine compound in said copolymer ranging from 37 to 47%, preferably 37 to 45%, more preferably ranging from 37 to 40%, and Meissner Bolte 9 M/HTM-262-PC - trialkoxy silane in said copolymer ranging from 10 to 30 %, preferably 15 to 25%, more preferably ranging from 18 to 21%. The molar percentage of monomers in the copolymer is the direct result of adjustment of the quantities of monomers used for synthesis of the copolymer. Advantageously, organo-functional silicone copolymer according to the invention has a molar percentage of: - silicone monomer in said copolymer ranging from 42 to 45%, - amine compound in said copolymer ranging from 37 to 40%, and - trialkoxy silane in said copolymer ranging from 18 to 21%. In an embodiment, the mass ratio between the silicone monomer and the trialkoxy silane in the copolymer according to the invention is ranging from 1:0.003 to 1:0.03 by weight, preferably from 1:0.005 to 1:0.02, more preferably from 1:0.008 to 1:0.009. The mass ratio of monomers in all aspects of the disclosure can be adjusted to manipulate the characteristics of the copolymer as desired. For example, the monomers can be present in mass ratios of silicone monomer to trialkoxy silane monomer of 97:3, 98: 2, 99:1, 99.2:0.8, 99.5:0.5 and 99.7:0.3, by weight. Notably, the monomers can be present in mass ratios of silicone monomer to trialkoxy silane monomer of 99:1, 99.2:0.8, and 99.5:0.5 by weight. In a preferred embodiment, the copolymer according to the invention results from the copolymerization of: - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one trialkoxy silane monomer comprising 1 functional epoxy group, and - at least one amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups, wherein the equivalent weight ratio of the epoxy to amine is from 1:1 to 1:1.5 by equivalent weight. Meissner Bolte 10 M/HTM-262-PC In an embodiment, the organo-functional silicone copolymer according to the invention has a number-average molecular weight ranging from 12000 to 20000 g/mol, preferably from 14000 to 18000 g/mol. The term “number average molecular weight” as used throughout the description refers to the number-average molecular weight being obtained by measurement by size exclusion chromatography, in particular by using polystyrene calibration. The method of measurement by size exclusion chromatography using polystyrene calibration is for example described in the work (Fontanille, M.; Gnanou, Y., Chimie et physico to Chimie des polymeres [Chemistry and physical chemistry of polymers]. 2nd ed.; Dunod: 2010; p 546). As used herein, the word “average” refers to number average unless indicated otherwise. The copolymer according to the invention has the advantage of having an acceptable viscosity which allows the manufacturer to handle it easily without any tackiness issues and to apply the copolymer in the form of a solution, emulsion or dispersion easily and evenly on the textile. In the context of the present invention, “acceptable viscosity” is to be understood as a viscosity being less than 3000 mPas, notably ranging from 30 to 600 mPas that allows the manufacturer to handle the copolymer without any issues of tackiness. A copolymer having an acceptable viscosity according to the invention also refers to a copolymer being easy, processable meaning that the copolymer according to the invention is easily dissolved into an aqueous solution, or dispersed in an emulsion or dispersion that are further applied on the textile. Therefore, the copolymer is evenly applied on the textile which provides to the whole treated textile the soft handfeel and the hydrophilicity properties. The term “viscosity” refers to the Brookfield viscosity expressed in mPas. The viscosity is measured using a Brookfield viscometer at 2000 + heading. It is measured at 25°C and at a speed of 200 rev/min rotation. Reading of the measurement is carried out after 30 seconds at 25°C. Meissner Bolte 11 M/HTM-262-PC Silicone monomer The silicone monomer according to the invention is of the structure M1D1aM1 or M2D1aD2bM2, where M1 is R1R2ReSiO_1/2 D1 is R3R4SiO1/2 M2 is R5R6R7SiO1/2 D2 is R8ReSiO_1/2, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 are independently chosen from a C1 to C10 aliphatic or aromatic group. Re has a composition as -A-Z; where A is chosen from a group comprising an alkyl (C1 to C10), or C3 to C10 polyester or C2 to C10 polyether with EO (ethylene oxide) and PO (propylene oxide) groups ; Z is an epoxy ring. a is an integer ranging from 200 to 400, more preferably from 250 to 350, more preferably from 280 to 330, and b is an integer ranging from 2 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3, more preferably 2. In an embodiment, the silicone monomer according to the invention has general formula (Ia), (Ib), (Ic) or (Id):

m is an integer ranging from 1 to 10more preferably from 3 to 7, more preferably from 3 to 4, a is an integer ranging from 200 to 400, more preferably from 250 to 350, more preferably from 280 to 330, and R1, R2, R3 and R4 are independently chosen from a C1 to C10 alkyl group, preferably a C1 to C4 alkyl group, more preferably a C1 to C2 alkyl group, or a C6 to C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group, preferably a C6 to C8 aromatic hydrocarbon group. Meissner Bolte 12 M/HTM-262-PC By “Ci to Cj alkyl” is meant a saturated, linear or branched hydrocarbon to Containing chain, comprising from i to j carbon atoms. By aromatic hydrocarbon group is meant an unsubstituted or substituted organic chemical compound.

in which : m is an integer ranging from 1 to 10 more preferably from 3 to 7, more preferably from 3 to 4 n is an integer ranging from 1 to 10, more preferably from 1 to 5, more preferably from 1 to 2, a is an integer ranging from 200 to 400, more preferably from 250 to 350, more preferably from 280 to 330, Z is a C2 to C10 polyester or polyether group, preferably a C2 to C5 polyester or polyether group, more preferably a C2 to C3 polyester or polyether group, and R1, R2, R3 and R4 are independently chosen from a C1 to C10 alkyl group, preferably a C1 to C4 alkyl group, more preferably a C1 to C2 alkyl group, or a C6 to C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group, preferably a C6 to C8. aromatic hydrocarbon group.

Meissner Bolte 13 M/HTM-262-PC

m is an integer ranging from 1 to 10, more preferably from 3 to 7, more preferably from 3 to 4, a is an integer ranging from 200 to 400, more preferably from 250 to 350, more preferably from 280 to 330, b is an integer ranging from 2 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3, more preferably 2, and R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8 are independently chosen from a C1 to C10 alkyl group, preferably a C1 to C4 alkyl group, more preferably a C1 to C2 alkyl group, or a C6 to C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group, preferably a C6 to C8 aromatic hydrocarbon group.

in which : Meissner Bolte 14 M/HTM-262-PC m is an integer ranging from 1 to 10 more preferably from 3 to 7, more preferably from 3 to 4 n is an integer ranging from 1 to 10, more preferably from 1 to 5, more preferably from 1 to 2, a is an integer ranging from 200 to 400, more preferably from 250 to 350, more preferably from 230 to 280, b is an integer ranging from 2 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3, more preferably 2, Z is a C2 to C10 polyester or polyether group, preferably a C2 to C5 polyester or polyether group, more preferably a C2 to C3 polyester or polyether group, and R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8 are independently chosen from a C1 to C10 alkyl group, preferably a C1 to C4 alkyl group, more preferably a C1 to C2 alkyl group, or a C6 to C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group, preferably a C6 to C8 aromatic hydrocarbon group. Silicones of formula (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id) are known to a person skilled in the art and are commercially available. Particularly suitable silicone monomer is for example RH-NB- ES-12K from Runhe. According to an embodiment, the silicone monomer according to the invention is at least one of the silicone monomers of formula (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id). According to another embodiment, the silicone monomer according to the invention consists of one single silicone monomer of formula (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id). Trialkoxy silane monomer In an embodiment, the trialkoxy silane monomer according to the invention has general formula (IIa) or (IIb):

Meissner Bolte 15 M/HTM-262-PC

in which: Y is a C1 to C10 liner or branched carbon chain, preferably Me, Et, n-Pr, i-Pr, n-Bu, t- Bu, more preferably Me, Et. Trialkoxy silane monomer of formula (IIa) or (IIb) are known to a person skilled in the art and is commercially available. Particularly suitable trialkoxy silane monomer is for example (3-glycydyloxypropyl)trimethoxy silane from Sigma Aldrich. According to an embodiment, the trialkoxy silane monomer according to the invention is a mixture of at least two different trialkoxy silane monomers of formula (IIa) or (IIb). Preferably, the trialkoxy silane monomer according to the invention is a mixture of two different trialkoxy silane monomers of formula (IIa) or (IIb). Preferably, the trialkoxy silane monomer according to the invention consists of one single trialkoxy silane monomer of formula (IIa) or (IIb). Amine compound In an embodiment, the amine compound according to the invention comprises at least 2 functional amine groups. Preferably, the amine compound according to the invention comprises 2 functional amine groups. The amine groups of the amine compound according to the invention are reacted with the epoxy groups from the trialkoxy silane monomer (IIa) or from the silicone monomer (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id) to form the partial crosslinked organo-functional silicone copolymer according to the invention. The use of amine compound comprising functional amine groups as linker between the monomers allows advantageously to control the structure of the copolymer during its polymerization and thus allows to obtain linear or branched copolymer according to the invention. Meissner Bolte 16 M/HTM-262-PC In a preferred embodiment, the amine compound according to the invention is a cyclic or linear amine compound. Advantageously, the amine compound according to the invention is a linear amine compound. In a preferred embodiment, the 2 functional amine groups of the amine compound according to the invention are part of the backbone of said amine compound. Advantageously, the 2 functional amine groups of the amine compound according to the invention are part of the cyclic backbone of said amine compound. In an embodiment, the amine compound according to the invention has general formula (IIIa), (IIIb), or (IIIc) :

in which R is H or Me, y is an integer ranging from 2 to 39, more preferably from 4 to 35, more preferably from 10 to 30 or from 7 to 11, and Preferably, the sum of x and z is an average value ranging from 1.2 to 6, more preferably from 1.8 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3 or from 3 to 4, Meissner Bolte 17 M/HTM-262-PC

in which u is an integer ranging from 2 to 68, more preferably from 5 to 60, more preferably from 10 to 50. Amine compound of formula (IIIa), (IIIb) or (IIIc) are known to a person skilled in the art and is commercially available. Particularly suitable amine compound is for example Jeffamine ED-600 from Huntsman. According to an embodiment, the amine compound according to the invention is a mixture of at least two different amine compounds of formula (IIIa), (IIIb) or (IIIc). Preferably, the trialkoxy silane monomer according to the invention is a mixture of two different amine compound of formula (IIIa), (IIIb), or (IIIc). According to another embodiment, the amine compound according to the invention consists of one single amine compound monomer of formula IIIa), (IIIb), (IIIc). In one preferred embodiment, the composition further comprises piperidine in addition to the amine compound comprising 2 functional amine groups according to the invention. It is understood that piperidine comprises only one amino function, nevertheless it may be added to the mixture comprising an amine compound which comprises two amino functions. According to another embodiment, the amine compound according to the invention is a mixture of at least one amine compound of formula (IIIa) and at least one amine compound of formula (IIIb). According to another embodiment, the amine compound according to the invention is a mixture of at least one amine compound of formula (IIIb) and piperidine. Method for preparing the copolymer according to the invention Meissner Bolte 18 M/HTM-262-PC The invention also concerns a method for preparing a copolymer according to the invention comprising at least one polymerization step a) in which at least the following are brought into contact in a solvent: - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one trialkoxy silane monomer, and - at least one amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups. Preferably in a first step, the silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups is reacted with the amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups to obtain a first reaction product and then this first reaction product is reacted with the trialkoxy silane monomer. According to a preferred embodiment, the solvent used in step a) has a boiling point of less than 150°C, preferably less than 130°C, more preferably comprised from 65°C to 130°C. Preferably, the solvent used in step a) is isopropanol or diethylene glycol butyl ether. According to another preferred embodiment, the polymerization step a) is carried under inert atmosphere such as nitrogen atmosphere. In one embodiment, the method further comprises the addition of a surfactant and water before the distillation step in order to avoid high viscosity and to improve handling and processing of the copolymer and its storage properties. METHOD OF PREPARING AN AQUEOUS EMULSION; SOLUTION OR SUSPENSION OF THE COPOLYMER The copolymer according to the invention are intended as softeners for textile. The invention also concerns an aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension comprising a) the least one copolymer according to the invention, b) at least one nonionic surfactant, and c) at least one weak protic acid. Meissner Bolte 19 M/HTM-262-PC Preferably, the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension is under the form of an aqueous emulsion. The aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention comprise non- ionic surfactants, wherein non-ionic surfactants are alkoxylated alcohols containing C8 to C18 liner or branched carbon chain and alkoxy group is an ethoxy and/or propoxy from 1 to 11 repeat units. The aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention comprise at least one weak protic acid, wherein the at least one weak protic acid has a pKa of 0 to 10, more preferably from 2 to 8, most preferably from 3 to 7. An example for a weak protic acid is acetic acid or formic acid. The aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension is applied on the textile for providing improved soft handfeel until several wash cycles to the textile. In a preferred embodiment, the copolymer is present in the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention in a concentration from 10 wt% to 60 wt%, preferably from 10 wt% to 50 wt%, more preferably from 15 wt% to 40 wt%, most preferably from 20 wt% to 30 wt% calculated on the total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the surfactant is present in the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention in a concentration from 3 wt% to 20 wt%, preferably from 3 wt% to 15 wt%, more preferably from 5 wt% to 10 wt%, most preferably from 5 wt% to 8 wt% calculated on the total weight of the composition. The term "surfactant" refers to a substance that reduces surface tension of a liquid. Typical examples that are useful for applying on textile are anionic or non-ionic surfactants such as fatty alcohol ethoxylates, fatty alcohol alkoxylates etc. which acts a wetting and rewetting agent. The non-ionic surfactants referred to this invention are linear or branched alkoxyated alcohol with C8 to C18 carbon chain and degree of ethoxylation/propoxylation ranging from 1-12. Anionic surfactants are selected from Meissner Bolte 20 M/HTM-262-PC sulfate, sulfonate, phosphates of linear or branched alkyl chain with or without alkoxy group. Advantageously, the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention comprises at least: - at least one copolymer according to the invention in a concentration from 10 wt% to 60wt%, preferably from 10 wt% to 50 wt%, more preferably from 15 wt% to 40 wt%, most preferably from 20 wt% to 30 wt% calculated on the total weight of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension, and - a surfactant in a concentration from 3 wt% to 20 wt%, preferably from 3 wt% to 15 wt%, more preferably from 5 wt% to 10 wt%, most preferably from 5 wt% to 8 wt% calculated on the total weight of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension Unless otherwise expressed, the “weight percentage” (indicated as % wt or wt%) of a copolymer or a surfactant mixture in the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension refers to the wt% of that compound used calculated on the total weight of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension. In a preferred embodiment, the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention may further comprise organic solvents, preferably with hydroxyl functionality and selected from a group of mono or poly hydroxy alcohols from C2 to C10 with 1-3 hydroxy groups and 0-4 ether linkages such as butyl diglycol, poly ethylene/ propylene glycols, Diethylene glycols. In one embodiment, the method further comprises a distillation step of the solvent used in step a) in order to obtain the copolymer composition according to the invention and as above-described. This distillation step allows to obtain the copolymer composition ready to be used without any need of further purification. Preferably, the distillation step is carried under 200mbar. In one preferred embodiment, the distillation step is carried at a temperature of the boiling point of the solvent. Meissner Bolte 21 M/HTM-262-PC Advantageously, the temperature of the distillation step is less than 100°C, preferably less than 70°C, more preferably in the range of 30°C to 50°C, preferably under vacuum pressure. COMPOSITION AND USE The present invention also concerns a composition comprising the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention, and at least one emulsion of one hydrophilic polymer or at least one hydrophilic molecule. The term "hydrophilic polymer” or “hydrophilic molecule” refers to a substance that is water loving in nature and enhances water absorbing property. Typical examples that are useful on textile are ionic and non-ionic polymers or hydrophilic molecules known in the prior art wherein ionic polymers or molecules bearing carboxylates or sulfonates or phosphates or phosphonates groups as well as non-ionic polymers or molecules bearing polyether or acrylate or amide or hydroxy groups etc. act as hydrophilic agents. Preferably, the hydrophilic polymer is the polymerization product of - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups. More preferably, the at least one hydrophilic polymer comprises a repeating unit of the general formula (IV), well known in state of art:

m is an integer ranging from 1 to 10 more preferably from 3 to 7, more preferably from 3 to 4, a is an integer ranging from 200 to 400, more preferably from 250 to 350, more preferably from 280 to 330, Meissner Bolte 22 M/HTM-262-PC R1, R2, R3 and R4 are independently chosen from a C1 to C10 alkyl group, preferably a C1 to C4 alkyl group, more preferably a C1 to C2 alkyl group, or a C6 to C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group, preferably a C6 to C8 aromatic hydrocarbon group, and X is an amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups. Preferably, the above definition for the at least one silicone monomer and the at least one amine compound to be reacted with each other also applies to the at least one polymer. In a preferred embodiment, the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention and an emulsion of atleast one hydrophilic polymer are present in a ratio of 50:50, more preferably of 20:80, most preferably from 10:90 in the composition according to the invention. The hydrophilicity of a textile could be significantly improved by treatment with the composition according to the invention without reducing the durability of the hand feel. The polymers comprising a repeating unit of the general formula (IV) provide good hydrophilicity for a textile but are not durable in hand feel. Therefore, it is believed that the copolymer according to the invention interacts with the hydrophilic polymer in the composition according to the invention forming an interpenetrated network that helps to retain the soft handfeel even after several wash cycles thereby giving good durability and simultaneously increasing the hydrophilicity. The present invention also concerns a process for treating the textile with the composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention or the copolymer according to the invention, in which the said composition or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention or copolymer according to the invention is applied to the said textile or incorporated into it. The present invention also concerns the use of the composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention or the copolymer according to the invention in treating textile for improving Meissner Bolte 23 M/HTM-262-PC simultaneously the soft handfeel until several washes and the hydrophilicity of said textile. The present invention also concerns a textile treated with the composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention. APPLICATION PROCESS The present invention also concerns a method for treating a textile comprising the application of the composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention to a textile. The application of the composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention of the can be carried out by various methods. Preferably, the application comprises coating with an air knife or rod coater, impregnation or immersion by padding or exhaust method, printing techniques, spray coating, inclusion into the textile fibers such as polyester, nylon or modacrylic fiber material, during the spinning process. Preferably, the composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention is applied to the textile at a concentration in the range of 20 to 80 g/l or 2 % to 12% and/or has a pH in the range of 3 to 11. Preferably, the textile treated with composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention is dried or cured. Particularly preferably, the drying or curing is carried out at a temperature of 80 to 180°C and/or for a time of 10 seconds to 12 minutes. The copolymers according to the invention are suitable for treating a wide variety of substrates including fibers, yarns, fabrics, knits, towels, woven, non-woven and garments. Meissner Bolte 24 M/HTM-262-PC The textile treated with composition according to the invention or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention can be a natural (non- synthetic) cellulose-based textiles such as cotton, silk, wool, linen and hemp or a synthetic textile material such as polyamides, polyurethanes, polyacrylics, polyesters, polyolefins, polylactide or also blends of natural textile material with synthetic textile material such as blends of cotton and polyester fibers or polyamide fibers.

Meissner Bolte 25 M/HTM-262-PC EXAMPLES Examples 1, 2 and 3 represents (AB)n silicone polymer with crosslinker groups. Examples 4, 5 and 6 are comparative representations of (AB)n silicone polymer without crosslinker groups that are known in state of art and are typically used as hydrophilic softener coatings in textile finishing. Examples 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 representing coating composition using silicone crosslinker polymer that can be used in textile finishing as softeners for durable performance of handfeel and hydrophilicity. Below commercial products are used in given examples - Surfactant : V51(Imbentin-U/050)-C11&5EO (non-ionic surfactant), Esteem- 48-AK- C13&11EO (non-ionic surfactant) - Silicone monomer: RH-NB-ES-12K (Diepoxy terminated PDMS) - Amine compound: Piperazine (Diamine), Jeffamine ED-600 (Diamine polyether) - Solvent : water, isopropanol, Butyl carbitol, Glycerol. - Commercial product 1: Emulsion of a conventional ABn silicone copolymer bearing hydrophilic groups - Defoamer: Xiameter AFE050 (antifoam emulsion) - Preservative: sodium benzoate or benzyl benzoate Examples for copolymer synthesis and emulsification according to the invention Example 1 200g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) and 1.77g of Glycidyloxypropyl trimethoxy silane are added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 7g of Jeffamine ED-600, 0.25g of piperazine in 200g isopropanol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then refluxed at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 400g of polymer solution in aqueous solution of 500g water and 50 g each of non-ionic surfactants C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25oC-60oC and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Solvent Meissner Bolte 26 M/HTM-262-PC isopropanol was removed by vaccum distillation and observed solid content of the emulsions is in the range of 27-30%. Example 1a 200g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) and 1.77g of Glycidyloxypropyl trimethoxy silane are added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 7g of Jeffamine ED-600, 0.25g of piperazine in 200g butyl carbitol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then refluxed at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 400g of polymer solution in aqueous solution of 500g water and 50 g each of non-ionic surfactants C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25oC-60oC- and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Adjust solid content of the emulsions is in the range of 27-30%. With the use of butyl carbitol as solvent, the isopropanol stripping process is eliminated. Example 2 200g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) and 1.77g of Glycidyloxypropyl trimethoxy silane are added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 8.7g of Jeffamine ED-600 in 250g isopropanol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then refluxed at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 400g of polymer solution in aqueous solution of 500g water and 50 g each of C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25oC-60oC and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Solvent isopropanol was removed by vaccum distillation and observed solid content of the emulsions in the range of 27-30%. Example 3 200g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) and 1.77g of Glycidyloxypropyl trimethoxy silane are added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 1.259g of piperazine in 250g isopropanol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then refluxed at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 400g of polymer solution in aqueous solution of Meissner Bolte 27 M/HTM-262-PC 500g water and 50 g each of C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25 oC-60oC and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Observed solid content of the emulsions is in the range of 27-30%. Comparative Examples (conventional hydrophilic softner without crosslinker) Example 4 150g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) is added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 5.4g of Jeffamine ED-600, 0.2g of piperazine in 150g isopropanol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then refluxed at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 300g of polymer solution into aqueous solution of 375g water and 37.5 g each of C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25 oC-60oC and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Solvent isopropanol was removed by vaccum distillation and observed solid content of the emulsions in the range of 27-30%. Example 4a 150g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) is added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 5.4g of Jeffamine ED-600, 0.2g of piperazine in 75g butyl carbitol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then heated at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 230g of polymer solution into aqueous solution of 150 g water and 50 g each of C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25oC -60oC and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Adjust solid content of the emulsions is in the range of 27-30%. With the use of butyl carbitol as solvent, the isopropanol stripping process is eliminated. Example 5 150g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) is added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 6.6 of Jeffamine ED-600, in 150g isopropanol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then refluxed at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete Meissner Bolte 28 M/HTM-262-PC polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 300g of polymer solution in aqueous solution of 375g water and 37.5 g each of C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25oC-60oC and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Solvent isopropanol was removed by vacuum distillation and observed solid content of the emulsions in the range of 27-30%. Example 6 150g of RH-NB-ES-12K (diepoxy silicone, Mn = 12k) is added in a cylindrical reactor fitted with reflux condenser, thermometer pocket and nitrogen inlet. Mixture of 0.969g of piperazine in 150g isopropanol was added under continuous stirring. Solution was then refluxed at 80-82oC for 7 hours under nitrogen atmosphere. After complete polymerization, each polymer solution was emulsified by adding the 300g of polymer solution in aqueous solution of 375g water and 37.5 g each of C13/11EO and C115EO surfactants at 25oC-60oC and stirring for 30 minutes. pH 5-7 was maintained by neutralizing the solution with dilute acetic acid (22%). Solvent isopropanol was removed by vaccum distillation and observed solid content of the emulsions in the range of 27-30%. Properties: The physical appearance and properties of the polymer & emulsion of Example 1-6 are displayed in Table 1. Table 1 Example No. Physical Polymer molecular Emulsion viscosity Particle appearance Weight (Mw/Mn) (cps) Size Spindle# 61 (nm) 1 Opaque 24523/14766 28 60.36 2 Opaque 26648/15923 32 78.05 3 Opaque 31610/22005 31 160.43 Comparative Example No. 4 Opaque 22401/14983 28 173.99 5 Opaque 24299/15352 35 38.08 Meissner Bolte 29 M/HTM-262-PC 6 Opaque 35873/22419 43 212.1 Composition using organo-functional silicone crosslinker copolymer emulsion Example 7 Composition Amount (g) Example 1 9.75 Example 4 89.75 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Example 8 Composition Amount (g) Example 1 49.75 Example 5 49.75 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Example 9 Composition Amount (g) Example 1 49.75 Example 6 49.75 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Example 10 Composition Amount (g) Example 1 49.75 Commercial product 1 49.75 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Meissner Bolte 30 M/HTM-262-PC Example 11 Composition Amount (g) Example 1 7.8 Example 4 71.7 Commercial hydrophilic silicone softener 20.0 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Example 12 Composition Amount (g) Example 1 15.6 Example 4 63.6 Commercial hydrophilic silicone softener 20.0 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Example 13 Composition Amount (g) Example 1 23.85 Example 4 55.65 Commercial hydrophilic silicone softener 20 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Example 14 Composition Amount (g) Example 1a 7.8 Example 4a 71.7 Commercial hydrophilic silicone softener 20.0 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1 Meissner Bolte 31 M/HTM-262-PC Example 15 Composition Amount (g) Example 1a 7.8 Example 4a 71.7 Water 20.0 Defoamer 0.4 Preservative 0.1

Meissner Bolte 32 M/HTM-262-PC Fabric treatment and performance evaluation Testing fabrics (100% cotton knit) were treated as continues Pad - Dry process, padding was done by dry on wet process using silicone emulsion dosage as 30 g/l, wet pickup 65-75%, and dried at 130oC for 2min. Padding was done by dry on wet process using emulsion dosage as 30 g/l, wet pickup 65-75%, and dried at 130oC for 2min. Washing was carried out using AATCC 135. Washing was carried out using AATCC 135. Softness evaluation was done by the hand panel before and after washing upto 10-15 wash cycle and tested fabrics were ranked in order such that lowest number in the ranking is the best (1>3>5>7). Absorbency was tested by drop test method AATCC 79 and wicking test AATCC 197. The results are present in Table 2-7 Performance data Softness evaluation and absorbency Comparative performance evaluation of silicone softeners with and without crosslinker groups (table 2-4) show that with crosslinker functional groups polymer can be retained on the fabric after several wash cycles (10-15 HL) owing to covalent crosslinking of the polymer with the fabric. However, low absorbency is observed due to high crosslinking density that imparts some extent of water repelling behavior on the fabric surface. Handfeel durability performance evaluation To understand the ability of crosslinker groups in the polymer and enhance handfeel durability until several wash cycles, cotton fabrics were applied with emulsions in Example 1,2,3,4,5,6 and their handfeel evaluation was done before and after washing. Padding was done by dry on wet process using emulsion dosage as 30 g/l, wet pickup 65-75%, and dried at 130oC for 2min. Washing was carried out using AATCC 135. Softness evaluation was done by the hand panel before and after washing upto 10-15 wash cycle and tested fabrics were ranked in order such that lowest number in the ranking is the best (1>3>5>7). Comparison of handfeel for the fabrics coated with Meissner Bolte 33 M/HTM-262-PC silicone softeners with crosslinker (Example 1, 1a, 2,3), without crosslinker (Example 4, 4a, 5,6) and blank (uncoated) fabric are provided in the below table. Table 2 Example no. Handfeel ranking Before After After wash 10 HL 15 HL Blank 7 7 7 ULTRATEX SI 3 5 7 Example 1 1 3 5 Example 4 1 7 7 Table 3 Example no. Handfeel ranking Before wash After 10 HL Blank 7 7 ULTRATEX SI 3 5 Example 2 1 3 Example 5 1 7 Table 4 Example no. Handfeel ranking Before After 10 HL wash Blank 7 7 ULTRATEX SI 3 5 Example 3 1 3 Example 6 1 7 Comparative performance evaluation of silicone softeners with and without crosslinker groups (table 2-4) show that polymers with crosslinker functional groups show best Meissner Bolte 34 M/HTM-262-PC ranking in handfeel before and after several wash cycles (10-15 HL) owing to retention of the silicone polymer even after several washes. Such polymer retention is mainly attributed to the covalent binding of the crosslinker groups in the polymer with the fabric -OH groups unlike conventional silicone softeners that are bound by ionic interactions. However, such silicone softeners with crosslinking groups inhibits water absorbency of the fabric. Hence to achieve balanced properties of hydrophilicity and handfeel before and after several washes, the composition of organo-functional silicone copolymer emulsion according to the invention was made with conventional hydrophilic silicone softeners emulsions as in example 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. Comparison of performance of the composition was done with example 1 and conventional hydrophilic softeners that are known in state of art, as in example 4, 5 and 6. Composition performance for balanced properties benefit Below tables 5 to 8 shows comparison of handfeel (before & after wash) and absorbency. Graphical representation of the results in figures 1 to 4 indicates that candidate with highest durability and good absorbency should have minimum handfeel ranking (x axis) and minimum absorbency value (y axis). Table 5 Example no. Handfeel ranking Absorbency (before B_{efore wash After 10 HL} ^{washing) (sec)} Blank 7 7 0 ULTRATEX SI 3 5 6.0 Example 1 1 3 6.0 Example 4 1 7 2.0 Example 7 1 5 3.5 Meissner Bolte 35 M/HTM-262-PC Table 6 Example no. Handfeel ranking Absorbency (before Before wash After 10 HL washing) (sec) Blank 7 7 0 ULTRATEX SI 3 5 6.0 Example 1 1 3 6.0 Example 6 1 7 2.0 Example 9 1 5 4.5 Table 7 Example no. Handfeel ranking Absorbency (before B_{efore wash After 10 HL} ^{washing) (sec)} Blank ₇ 7 ₀ ULTRATEX SI ₃ 5 _6.0 Example 1 1 3 6.0 Example 5 1 7 2.0 Example 8 1 5 4.5 Table 8 Example no. Handfeel ranking Absorbency (before Before wash After 10 HL washing) (sec) Blank 7 7 0.0 ULTRATEX SI 3 5 6.0 ULTRATEX 7 0.3 STS-U 3 Example 1 1 3 6.0 Example 10 3 5 1.0 Example 11 1 3 2.5 Example 12 1 3 3.0 Example 13 1 3 4.0 Example 14 1 3 2.5 Example 15 1 3 3.0 Meissner Bolte 36 M/HTM-262-PC Fabrics treated with copolymer compositions of the current invention showed comparable handfeel and absorbency performance to conventional hydrophilic silicone softeners (comparative examples) before washing. However, after washing (up to 10 HL) it exhibited good retention of handfeel as shown by good ranking (lowest ranking is the best), indicative of higher durability. Hence good balance of handfeel, absorbency and durability up to 10 HL can be achieved by the preparing a composition using crosslinker copolymer according to the invention and hydrophilic softeners. In addition, enhancement of other performances such as wrinkle resistance, fabric strength, non-yellowing, color fastness for dyed fabrics etc. are also obtained. Compatibility with different chemicals/additives optical brightener, metal salts and stability towards pH, shearing and shaking shows additional benefits. Result: Comparative performance evaluation of fabrics coated with compositions reveals good handfeel rating before and after 10 HL washing in comparison to the conventional hydrophilic softeners. Crosslinker copolymer enables crosslinking of the hydrophilic softener polymers with the fabric forming interpenetrated network that ensures that polymer is not removed off from the fabric even after several washing cycles. Hence balanced hydrophilicity along with handfeel durability is well attained by the composition that uses crosslinker copolymer.

Meissner Bolte 37 M/HTM-262-PC Figures: Figure 1 Graphical representation of the results from Table5. On the x-axis is the handfeel ranking and on the y-axis the absorption value. The double circle point in the graph refers to the desired performance. Figure 2 Graphical representation of the results from Table 6. On the x-axis is the handfeel ranking and on the y-axis the absorption value. The double circle point in the graph refers to the desired performance. Figure 3 Graphical representation of the results from Table 7. On the x-axis is the handfeel ranking and on the y-axis the absorption value. The double circle point in the graph refers to the desired performance. Figure 4 Graphical representation of the results from Table 8. On the x-axis is the handfeel ranking and on the y-axis the absorption value. The double circle point in the graph refers to the desired performance.

Claims

Meissner Bolte 38 M/HTM-262-PC CLAIMS 1. An organo-functional silicone copolymer resulting from the copolymerization of: - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one trialkoxy silane monomer, and - at least one amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups. 2. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims having a molar percentage of silicone monomer in said copolymer ranging from 35 to 55 %, preferably 40 to 50 %, more preferably ranging from 42 to 45%. 3. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims wherein the mass % of the trialkoxy silane monomer in the copolymer according to the invention is ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 by weight, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, more preferably from 0.8 to 1. 4. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims, wherein the silicone monomer has general formula (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), (Id):

Meissner Bolte 39 M/HTM-262-PC

in which : m is an integer ranging from 1 to 10, more preferably from 3 to 7, more preferably from 3 to 4 , n is an integer ranging from 1 to 10, more preferably from 1 to 5, more preferably from 1 to 2, a is an integer ranging from 200 to 400, more preferably from 250 to 350, more preferably from 280 to 330 , b is an integer ranging from 2 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3, more preferably 2, Z is a C2 to C10 polyester or polyether group, preferably a C2to C5 polyester or polyether group, more preferably a C2 to C3 polyester or polyether group, and R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8 are independently chosen from a C1 to C10 alkyl group, preferably a C1 to C4 alkyl group, more preferably a C1 to C2 alkyl group, or a C6 to C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group, preferably a C6 to C8 aromatic hydrocarbon group. Meissner Bolte 40 M/HTM-262-PC 5. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims, wherein the trialkoxy silane monomer has general formula (IIa) or (IIb):

in which : Y is a C1 to C10 liner or branched carbon chain, preferably Me, Et, n-Pr, i-Pr, n-Bu, t- Bu, more preferably Me, Et. 6. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims wherein the amine compound is a cyclic or linear amine compound. 7. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims wherein the amine compound has general formula (IIIa), (IIIb) or (IIIc): (IIIb); or

Meissner Bolte 41 M/HTM-262-PC

in which R is H or Me, y is an integer ranging from 2 to 39, more preferably from 4 to 35, more preferably from 10 to 30, u is an integer ranging from 2 to 68, more preferably from 5 to 60, more preferably from 10 to 50. Preferably, the sum of x and z is an averaged value ranging from 1.2 to 6, more preferably from 1.8 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3. 8. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims wherein the amine compound is a mixture of at least one amine compound of general formula (IIIa) and of at least one amine compound of general formula (IIIb):

in which Meissner Bolte 42 M/HTM-262-PC R is H or Me, y is an integer ranging from 2 to 39, more preferably from 4 to 35, more preferably from 10 to 30, preferably, the sum of x and z is an averaged value ranging from 1.2 to 6, more preferably from 1.8 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3. 9. The copolymer according to any of foregoing claims wherein the amine compound is a mixture of at least one amine compound of general formula (IIIb)

in which y is an integer ranging from 2 to 39, more preferably from 4 to 35, more preferably from 10 to 30, preferably, the sum of x and z is an averaged value ranging from 1.2 to 6, more preferably from 1.8 to 4, more preferably from 2 to 3, and piperidine. 10. A method for preparing a copolymer according to any of foregoing claims comprising at least one polymerization step a) in which at least the following are brought into contact in a solvent: - at least one silicone monomer comprising at least 2 functional epoxy groups, - at least one trialkoxy silane monomer, and - at least one amine compound comprising at least 2 functional amine groups. 11. The method according to claim 10 wherein the solvent used in step a) has a boiling point of less than 150°C, preferably less than 130°C, more preferably comprised from 65°C to 130°C. Meissner Bolte 43 M/HTM-262-PC 12. The method according to any of foregoing claims 10 or 11 comprising a distillation step of the solvent used in step a). 13. The method according to any of foregoing claims 10 to 12 wherein the temperature of the distillation step is less than 100°C, preferably less than 70°C, more preferably from 30°C to 50°C, preferably under vacuum pressure. 14. An aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension comprising a) at least one copolymer according to any of the claims 1 to 9, b) at least one nonionic surfactant, and c) at least one weak protic acid. 15. The aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to claim 14, wherein the copolymer is present in the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension in a concentration from 10 wt% to 60 wt%, preferably from 10wt% to 50wt%, more preferably from 15 wt% to 40wt%, most preferably from 20wt% to 30 wt% calculated on the total weight of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension. 16. The aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to claims 14 or 15, wherein the surfactant is present in the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to the invention in a concentration from 3 wt% to 20 wt%, preferably from 3wt% to 15wt%, more preferably from 5 wt% to 10 wt%, most preferably from 5 wt% to 8wt% calculated on the total weight of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension. 17. A composition comprising the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to claims 14 to 16, and an emulsion of at least one hydrophilic polymer or at least one hydrophilic molecule. Meissner Bolte 44 M/HTM-262-PC 18. The composition according to claim 17, wherein the ratio of the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to claims 14 to 16 and an emulsion of at least one hydrophilic polymer is in a ratio of 50:50, more preferably of 20:80, most preferably from 10:90. 19. A use of the composition according to claims 17 or 18 or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to any of the claims 14 to 16 in treating textile for improving simultaneously the soft handfeel and the hydrophilicity of said textile after several wash cycles. 20. A textile treated with the composition according to claims 17 or 18 or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to any of the claims 14 to 16. 21. A method for treating a textile comprising the application of the composition according to claims 17 or 18 or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to any of the claims 14 to 16 to a textile. 22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the application comprises coating with an air knife or rod coater, impregnation or immersion by padding or exhaust method, printing techniques, spray coating, inclusion into the textile fibers during the spinning process. 23. The method according to claim 22, wherein the composition according to claims 17 or 18 or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to any of the claims 14 to 16 is applied to the textile at a concentration in the range of 20 to 80 g/l or 2 % - 12% and/or has a pH in the range of 3 to 11. Meissner Bolte 45 M/HTM-262-PC 24. The method according to any of the claims 21 to 23, wherein the composition according to claims 17 or 18 or the aqueous emulsion, solution or suspension according to any of the claims 14 to 16 is dried or cured at a temperature of 80 to 180°C and/or for a time of 10 seconds to 12 minutes.