Polyamide 66 versus next-best resins

Alternatives are no match for its performance, processability and value

PA66’s superior thermal, strength, electrical and processing properties have made it a sought-after polymer. Its popularity coupled with market forces led to supply constraints in 2017 and 2018. However, with investments in capacity expansions for PA66 and key raw materials, those constraints are projected to be relieved in the near future. By 2022, when announced expansions will be complete, the industry will have invested in capacity at levels not seen since the 1960s.

Meanwhile, nylon 6,6’s performance and processability characteristics make it a hard-to-beat value among thermoplastics. Manufacturers or processors considering alternative materials should evaluate the polymer's unique mix of properties rather than compare a single characteristic in a vacuum.

Our white paper, "Never settle for less: How polyamide 66 performs against next-best resins," illustrates why nylon 6,6 continues to be the preferred material in some of the most demanding applications.