WHAT IS IT?
Nylon (polyamide, PA) is a family of engineering thermoplastics known for their strength, abrasion resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures. The two dominant types are PA6 and PA66 — similar in many properties but made from different monomers and with slightly different performance characteristics.
PA6 (Polycaprolactam)
Made from: Caprolactam (single monomer, from cyclohexane → benzene → cyclohexane → caprolactam)
Melting point: ~220°C
Better impact resistance and processing flexibility
Widely used in engineering moulded parts, films, fibres
Cheaper than PA66
PA66 (Polyhexamethylene Adipamide)
Made from: Adipic acid + HMDA (hexamethylenediamine) — two monomers
Melting point: ~265°C
Higher heat resistance, better rigidity under load
Preferred in high-temperature automotive applications (engine compartment)
USA: DuPont's Zytel (invented PA66)
KEY USES
Automotive: Engine covers, air intake manifolds, cable ties, under-the-hood components (PA66 dominant)
Textiles: Nylon stockings, sportswear, parachutes, toothbrush bristles
Industrial: Gears, bearings, conveyor rollers (outstanding wear resistance)
Electrical: Connectors, circuit breakers
Films: Food packaging barriers
Consumer goods: Ski boots, brush bristles
TRADE CORRIDORS
Major producers: BASF, DuPont, Radici Group, Lanxess, Chinese producers
Major buyers: Automotive industry globally, textile manufacturers in Asia
Tetra relevance: China and South Korea major consumers for automotive and textiles.
SPECIFICATIONS
Density: ~1.14 g/cm³ (PA6), ~1.15 g/cm³ (PA66)
Tensile strength: 70–85 MPa
Water absorption: PA6 absorbs more moisture than PA66
MFI: Grade-dependent