PA6

PA6, or polyamide 6, is a semicrystalline thermoplastic polymer commonly known as nylon 6. Its repeating unit is [-NH-(CH2)5-CO-], produced primarily by ring-opening polymerization of caprolactam. PA6 has a density around 1.12 g/cm3 and a melting point near 215–220°C, with a glass transition temperature in the mid-40s to mid-50s Celsius range.

PA6 offers good mechanical strength and toughness, wear resistance, and chemical resistance to many solvents. It is highly processable by standard melt-processing methods such as extrusion and injection molding. The material is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture from the atmosphere, which plasticizes the polymer and can lower its stiffness and thermal resistance. Moisture content must be considered in design and processing.

Commercial PA6 comes in many grades, including reinforced variants with glass fiber to improve stiffness and heat resistance. Other specialty grades include impact-modified, UV-stabilized, flame-retardant, and low-shrink or high-clarity formulations. Processing conditions and additives can tailor properties for specific applications.

Applications of PA6 are widespread. It is used in automotive components (gears, housings, connectors), electrical and electronic housings, plumbing fittings, and consumer goods. It is also employed in textile fibers and filaments. Outdoor performance may require stabilizers to mitigate UV exposure, and recycling streams exist for PA6 in manufacturing and end-use products. Overall, PA6 is valued for a balance of strength, toughness, and processability across a broad range of engineered plastics.