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Polyarylamide (PARA) — MXD6

Advantages

  1. Very high rigidity
  2. High flow
  3. Excellent surface appearance
  4. Creep resistance
  5. Low coefficient of thermal expansion

Limitations

  1. Higher cost in comparison to nylon 6 and 6/6
  2. Similar heat resistance to nylon 6 and 6/6
  3. Poor chemical resistance to strong acids and bases

Overview

Polyarylamide, also known as PA-MXD6, is a member of the amide family similar to nylon 6 or 6/6. Unlike other polyamides, it has a benzene ring on the amide side of the chemical structure. The result of this is excellent strength, rigidity, creep resistance, and dimensional stability when compared with other polyamides and makes this material an excellent candidate for metal replacement applications.

Polyarylamide is easily modified through the use of fibers, fillers, and additives. Its low viscosity allows for the use of high filler content with little or no degradation of surface appearance. Applications that require the combination of thin walls and high rigidity are also excellent places to use polyarylamide.

Chemical resistance for polyarylamide is similar to other members of the nylon family. It is resistant to most common solvents such as: aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, chlorinated solvents, ketones, esters, ethers, and glycols. However, contact with strong acids and bases should be avoided, as these will degrade polyarylamide.