Advantages

  • Low moisture absorbing nylon
  • Lower cost compared to other low moisture absorbing nylons
  • Chemical resistance

Limitations

  • High cost compared to Nylon 6 and Nylon 6/6

Overview

Because of nylon’s versatility, it is one of the most widely used engineering thermoplastics. Commercially available nylons include nylon 6, nylon 4/6, nylon 6/6, nylon 6/10, nylon 6/12, nylon 11 and nylon 12. The numerical nomenclature for nylon is derived from the number of carbon atoms in the diamine and dibasic acid monomers used to manufacture it. The ratio of carbon atoms is what gives each nylon type its unique property characteristics.

Nylon 6/10 has lower moisture absorption than nylon 6 or nylon 6/12. It is stronger than nylon 11, nylon 12, and nylon 6/12. Nylon 6/10 retains its room temperature toughness at low temperatures better than nylon 6 or nylon 6/6. Nylon 6/10 has good resistance to most solvents and to dilute mineral acids. It also resists the environmental stress cracking action of salts such as zinc chloride.

All nylons can be reinforced with glass fibers, glass beads, and carbon fibers to improve their mechanical and thermal performance. Filled materials containing PTFE and molybdenum disulphide are available for bearing materials with appropriately low friction and improved wear. nylon 6/10 compounds are used in a wide range of applications including zip fasteners, electrical insulators, precision parts, and filaments for brushes.