NYLON 66

Name: Nylon, Nylon (Spain and Latin America), Maranyl, Ultramid, Duretan

Real name: Poly(imino(1,6-dioxohexamethylene) iminohexamethylene)

Composition: C12H2N2O2

Family: Thermoplastics (Polyamides)

Density: 1.11

Temperature range: -30º/80ºC

Owned by: DuPont

Nylon 66 was patented and quickly became a revolutionary material. Its first commercial application was introduced in 1938 with the manufacture of textile fibers for women's stockings, marking a before and after in the fashion industry. Shortly after, during World War II, its use expanded to the production of parachutes, ropes, nets, and other military items, due to its high resistance and availability in the face of silk scarcity. Over time, the versatility of Nylon 66 allowed its incorporation into a wide range of products, making it a pillar of the synthetic polymer industry. 

Another key characteristic is its chemical resistance to oils, solvents, and fuels, which ensures optimal performance in sectors where contact with aggressive substances is common. It is also noted for its resistance to abrasion and wear, which extends its useful life in parts subjected to constant friction. Added to this is its dimensional stability, which allows it to retain its shape even under changes in temperature and humidity.

In the textile field, Nylon 66 is valued for its elasticity, softness, and dyeing capacity, allowing the manufacture of resistant, durable, and aesthetically attractive fibers. In the engineering field, it is used both in solid state and in the form of fiberglass-reinforced compounds, further enhancing its mechanical performance.

In the fields of construction and engineering, Nylon 66 is used in the production of elements such as anchors, fastenings, pipes, and profiles, thanks to its resistance and dimensional stability. It is also a common material in home appliances and electrical equipment, where it is employed in the manufacture of casings, switches, and insulating parts that need to withstand heat and friction conditions.

Within the textile industry, Nylon 66 remains a protagonist in the creation of resistant fabrics, sportswear, underwear, carpets, and upholstery. Its ability to combine durability with comfort makes it ideal for applications where a balance between resistance and aesthetics is needed. In the military and security sector, it still retains relevance in the manufacture of vests, straps, ropes, and protective equipment that require highly reliable materials.

In the field of technology and innovation, Nylon 66 is present in the production of components for 3D printers, electronic devices, and precision parts used in robotics and advanced machinery. Likewise, its combination with other polymers or reinforcing fibers opens the door to composite materials with superior properties that are applied in aeronautics and the aerospace industry.