PA
From Stockings to Aerospace,
One Material Does It All.
PA, commercially known as Nylon, it is the world’s second-largest engineering plastic, trailing only PC .
Known as the “All-Rounder” of engineering plastics, it was the first synthetic fiber in human history.
Spinnable into Fibers
Vast Potential for Modification
PA Family Classification
Higher numbering typically indicates lower water absorption and superior dimensional stability. Explore the structural evolution of polyamides.
PA Properties and Key Characteristics
| Performance Dimension | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Strength | High strength + High toughness; Impact resistance superior to POM |
| Wear Resistance | Naturally wear-resistant; MoS₂ / PTFE can be added for ultra-low friction |
| Oil/Chemical Resistance | Resistant to gasoline, grease, weak acids, and alkalis |
| Water Absorption | Main drawback: Post-absorption strength ↓30%, dimensions ↑0.5–1% |
| Temperature Resistance | 80–250°C (depending on grade) |
| Electrical Properties | Excellent insulation in dry state; declines in wet state |
| Spinnability | The only engineering plastic that can be spun into long filaments |
| Advantages (Pros) | Disadvantages (Cons) |
|---|---|
| High Strength + High Toughness | High Water Absorption (Dimensional/Performance Fluctuations) |
| Wear, Oil, and Chemical Resistance | Limited Heat Resistance (Softens below 150°C) |
| Spinnable into Fibers | UV Aging (Requires Anti-UV Additives) |
| Vast Potential for Modification | Declining Electrical Properties in Wet Conditions |
| High Cost-Efficiency (PA6/66) | High Cost for Specialty/High-End Grades |
| Selection Scenarios | Recommended Grades |
|---|---|
| Cost-Effective Structural Parts | PA6 / PA66 |
| Fuel / Pneumatic Tubing | PA11 / PA12 |
| High-Temperature Connectors | PA46 / PA6T |
| Transparent & Chemical Resistant | Transparent PA |
| Bio-based / Eco-friendly | PA11 / Recycled PA |
| Processing Technique | Applicable Grades / Products |
|---|---|
| Injection Molding | PA6 / 66 / 46 / 6T |
| Extrusion | Tubing, Sheets, Fibers |
| Blow Molding | Fuel Tanks, Flexible Hoses |
| Spinning | PA6 / 66 Fibers |
Industry Applications
Automotive
Intake manifold and engine hood. Lightweight design ushers in a new era of future mobility.
Electronics
This typically refers to circuit board assemblies, connectors, or high-temperature resistant housings.
5G Communication
Precision filters and housings that require extremely high dielectric stability.
Fiber
Stockings, sportswear, tire cord fabric.
Which PA to Choose?
Quick selection guide based on operational requirements and budgetary constraints.
| KEY CONDITION | PRIORITY RECOMMENDATION | CRITICAL CONSTRAINT | COST FACTOR |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Purpose | PA6 / PA66 | High humidity areas | $ - $$ |
| Harsh Chemicals | PA12 | High load at high temp | $$$ |
| SMT Soldering | PPA (6T/9T) | Extreme brittleness if not modified | $$$$ |
| Optical Clarity | Transparent PA | Strong solvents (Acetone) | $$$ |
More Polymer Material…
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Fluoropolymer
The absolute pinnacle of thermal and chemical resistance for critical environments.
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