Polymer system | Nylon properties | Characteristics of Nylon | Uses of Nylon

Polymer system: The polymer system of Nylon is about 65-85% crystalline and 35-15% amorphous. The polymer is very well aligned and oriented. Inter- polymer distance is very short which caused for Hydrogen bonding.

Nylon properties

Physical property:

1. Tenacity: Nylon fiber has crystalline polymer system and potential to form hydrogen bond. So it is strong fiber. Tenacity is ranges 4.3-8.8 g/d
2. Elastic- plastic nature: Elastic property of Nylon fiber is very good due to rigid regular polymer system and hydrogen bond. Nylon fiber is 100% elastic under 8% extension.
3. Hygroscopic Nature: Nylon filaments are not absorbent because of very crystalline polymer system but allow few water molecules to be absorbed.
4. Thermal property: Nylon filament has poor heat conductivity and low heat resistance. Due to heat, nylon polymers become excited and as a result in a breakdown of inter-polymer bonding.

Chemical property:

1. Effect of acid: Nylon is hot resistance to acid. It is acid sensitive. The nylon polymer is readily hydrolyzed under acidic conditions.
2. Effect of alkali: Prolonged and frequent exposure to alkali will also caused hydrolysis of nylon polymer. But it is les than acidic condition.
3. Effects of bleaches: nylon filaments are white and do not require bleaching.
4. Effects of sunlight: nylon has only few resistance to sunlight and weather. Prolonged exposure to sunlight causing breaking of inter-polymer hydrogen bonds.

Characteristics of Nylon-

1. Variation of luster
2. High durability
3. High elongation
4. Excellent abrasion resistance
5. High resistance to any chemical
6. 4-4.5% moisture regain
7. Melting point 2630C
8. Easy to wash
9. Specific gravity 1.14
10. Tenacity 4.3-8.8g/d
11. Elongation at break 18-45%

Uses of Nylon: Nylon is most popular in fabrics for apparel, home manufacturing and industrial applications. It uses to make:

1. Tracks pants
2. Shorts
3. Swim wear
4. Active wear
5. Wind beakers
6. Bedspreads and draperies
7. Parachutes
8. Flak vests
9. Combat uniforms
10. Tires and life vest
11. Netting
12. Umbrella
13. Luggage
14. Packaging
15. Meat wrapping etc