Everything about Nylon 6 totally explained
Nylon 6 or
polycaprolactam is a
polymer developed by
Paul Schlack at
IG Farben to reproduce the properties of
nylon 6,6 without violating the
patent on its production. Unlike most other
nylons, nylon 6 isn't a
condensation polymer, but instead is formed by
ring-opening polymerization. This makes it a special case in the comparison between condensation and
addition polymers. Its
competition with nylon 6,6 and the example it set have also shaped the economics of the
synthetic fiber industry. It was given the
trademark Perlon in the year
1952.
Synthesis
Nylon 6 begins as pure
caprolactam. As caprolactam has 6 carbon atoms, it got the name Nylon-6.
When caprolactam is heated at about 533
K in an inert
atmosphere of
nitrogen for about 4-5
hours, the ring breaks and undergoes
polymerization. Then the molten mass is passed through spinnerets to form fibres of Nylon 6.
During
polymerization, the
peptide bond within each caprolactam
molecule is broken, with the active groups on each side re-forming two new bonds as the
monomer becomes part of the polymer backbone.
Unlike nylon 6,6, in which the direction of the
amide bond reverses at each bond, all nylon 6 amide bonds lie in the same direction (see figure). Nylon 6 therefore resembles natural poly
peptides more closely; in fact, caprolactam would become an
amino acid if it were
hydrolyzed. This difference has little effect on the polymer's mechanical or chemical properties, but is sufficient to create a legal distinction.
Properties
- Nylon 6 fibres are tough, possessing high tensile strength.
- Fibres have high elasticity and lustre.
- Highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals like acids, alkalis, etc.
- They are wrinkle proof.
- It has the potential to be used as a technical nutrient
- Nylon 6 absorb up to 2.4 % of water which results in reduction in tensile strength
Applications
Bristles for toothbrushes, sutures for surgery, etc.
Manufacture of hosiery, knitted garments, etc.
Manufacture of a large variety of threads, ropes, filaments, nets, tire cords, etc.
Further Information
Get more info on 'Nylon 6'.
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