Is polyamide 6 the same as nylon 6?

Analysis of the Relationship between Polyamide 6 and Nylon 6

1. Identical Chemical Nature

• Consistent Core Components: Both are synthetic materials polymerized from caprolactam monomers, with completely identical molecular structures (containing repeating amide groups -CONH-).
• Identical Physicochemical Properties: Key properties such as melting point (approximately 220℃), strength, and water absorption are completely identical.

2. Differences in Naming Origins

Name | Origin | Use Case
Polyamide 6 | International Union of Polyamides (IUPAC) | Technical documents, academic papers, engineering drawings
Nylon 6 | Trade name™ registered by DuPont in 1938 | Marketing, everyday product labels

3. Potential Differences in Industrial Applications

• Differences in Purity Implied by the Name:
"Polyamide 6": Usually refers to a pure material conforming to ISO standards (e.g., injection molding grade PA6)
"Nylon 6": May contain modified additives (e.g., glass fiber reinforced "Nylon 6" is actually written as PA6+GF30)
• Supply Chain Hidden Rules: Some suppliers use the "Nylon 6" label to sell recycled material blends (to reduce costs), while "Polyamide 6" requires a composition report.

4. How Consumers Can Identify Product Quality

• Check Product Labeling: Safety-critical components (such as automotive parts) must be labeled "Polyamide 6" and the grade (e.g., PA6, B3EG5). Labeling everyday items as "Nylon 6" is normal (e.g., backpack buckles, zippers).
• Check Certification Documents: Request third-party testing reports from suppliers to confirm compliance with ISO 1874 or ASTM D4066 standards.