Nylon 6

There are many types of nylon available. The most common type of nylon are nylon 6 and nylon 6,6.
Nylon 6 or polycaprolactam is a polymer.
It is a semicrystalline polyamide.
Unlike most other nylons, nylon 6 is not a condensation polymer, but instead is formed by ring opening polymerisation.
Nylon 6 is synthesized by ring opening polymerisation of caprolactam.

Caprolactam.
Nylon 6 is made from a caprolactam monomer having 6 carbon atoms. Hence the name nylon 6.
When caprolactam is heated at about 533K in an inert atmosphere of nitrogen for about 4-5 hours, the ring breaks and undergoes polymerisation. Then the molten mass is passed through spinneret to form fibres of nylon 6.

Polycaprolactam.
Nylon 6 fibres are tough, possessing high tensile strength, as well as elasticity and lusture.
They are wrinkleproof and highly resistant to abrasion and chemicals such as acid and alkalies.
It is used to make toothbrush bristles, and strings for acoustic and classical musical instruments, including guitars, sitars, violins.
It is also used in the manufacture of a large variety of threads, ropes, as well as knitted garments. Next

Uses of nylon 6.

Polymers