Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 Market

The global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market size was USD 30.2 billion in 2023, and is calculated at USD 32.22 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to reach USD 65.8 Billion by 2034, and register a revenue 6.7% over the forecast period (2025-2034).

Premium Insights:

The global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market is registering steady revenue growth on account of rising demand from automotive, electronics, textile and apparel, and aerospace industries. Nylon-6 (polyamide-6) and nylon-66 (polyamide-66) are widely used for a variety of applications including engine components and cable insulation in automotive and electronics and for producing stretchable fabrics owing to lightweight, elasticity, strength and durability properties, and chemical and thermal resistance. Also increasing focus on sustainability initiatives is driving demand for bio-based and recycled nylon materials to meet eco-conscious consumer preferences. Scope of application is also increasing in packaging, engineering plastics, and industrial yarn, and this trend is also expected to continue to support growth of the Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market over the forecast period.

Polyamide-6 and polyamide-66 are composed of caprolactam and adipic acid as primary raw materials, with advanced polymerization technologies enabling diverse applications. Nylon 6 has good impact resistance and toughness, and is flexible and elongates well. It is also easier to process and mold than nylon 66 because it has a lower melting point. Nylon 6 is ideal for applications that require parts to withstand repeated stress or vibration, such as automotive door handles and roof racks etc. Nylon 66 has greater mechanical strength, stiffness, and heat resistance than nylon 6. It is also more resistant to wear and abrasion, and has better dimensional stability. Nylon 66 is ideal for applications that require parts to withstand high temperatures, such as under-the-hood automotive parts and cooling system components.

Use of these materials across industries such as healthcare, aerospace, and packaging has been increasing owing to these superior properties over other plastics and composites. These materials align with evolving and current market needs and are serving to reduce overall weight of vehicles as well as impart high-strength to components and engine parts and fuel systems in vehicles, in addition to enabling improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. In electronics applications, polyamide-6 and polyamide-66 are used for cable insulation and components, and is widely used due to superior thermal and wear resistance. In textiles and apparel, these materials are widely used for production of stretchable, durable fabrics for sportswear, outdoor gear, and fashion accessories. Nylon 66 is also used for manufacturing gears, bearings, rollers, and conveyor parts, as well as consumer goods/appliances and power tools, among others.

Research and Development (R&D) in additives for improved thermal stability and color retention further enhance product performance. Innovations in injection molding and 3D printing are broadening the applications of nylon-6 and nylon-66, particularly in customized, precision components. As industries seek high-strength, low-weight solutions and environmentally sustainable options, demand for Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 is expected to register substantial incline, reinforced by technological advancements and regulatory support for sustainable materials.

Top Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 Market Drivers and Trends:

• Versatility Across Applications: Nylon-6 and nylon-66 are widely used in automotive parts, industrial components, and medical devices, driven by properties such as high strength, wear resistance, and lightweight. In healthcare, these are used in surgical sutures, catheters, and prosthetics. Increasing demand for vehicles, medical devices, medical products and components, as well as rapid industrial expansion in emerging economies, and rising demand for materials to produce various automotive, industrial, electronics and components, electrical cables and wiring assemblies, and appliances are key factors expected to support continuous demand for Nylon-6 and nylon-66 over the forecast period.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Increasing focus on production of bio-based and recycled nylon is expected to support eco-conscious manufacturing practices, catering to consumer and regulatory demands. This trend is also supporting initiatives and advancements in recycling technologies to create circular nylon production systems, with applications across industries like automotive, consumer goods, and textiles.
• Technological Advancements: Innovations in polymer blends, 3D printing, and enhanced thermal properties are broadening application scope and driving demand in precision engineering and healthcare. Innovations are improving the properties and performance of nylon-6 and nylon-66, and nylon is replacing metal components in vehicles owing to lightweight, strong, and resistant to abrasion properties. Also, advancements in the textile industry is resulting in increasing adoption of nylon fibers to replace natural fibers due to superior strength, durability, and resistance to wear, shrinking, and wrinkling. Also, manufacturers are expanding R&D activities, and engaging in collaborations to develop advanced materials for medical and industrial applications, and this is also expected to drive sustained growth.

Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 Market Restraining Factor Insights

• High Production Costs and Dependence on Petrochemicals: The manufacturing processes for Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 are energy-intensive, and is dependent on petrochemical raw materials such as caprolactam and adipic acid. Volatile oil prices and high costs of production pose challenges for manufacturers, particularly in price-sensitive markets. Also, limited availability of bio-based alternatives further magnifies cost constraints.
• Environmental Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny: Nylon production generates greenhouse gas emissions, raising environmental sustainability concerns. The slow decomposition rate of nylon products contributes to plastic pollution, drawing criticism from environmental groups and attracting more stringent regulations from governments. Also, increasing preference for biodegradable and natural fibers in textiles and packaging is creating competition, affecting the demand for synthetic polymers.
• Technological and R&D Challenges: Developing bio-based nylon and improving recycling technologies face significant technical hurdles, including achieving comparable mechanical properties and cost-effectiveness. Limited scalability of advanced manufacturing technologies, such as 3D printing and high-performance polymer blends, delays widespread adoption, particularly in emerging markets.
• Availability of Alternatives: Growing consumer preference for alternative materials, coupled with the expansion of recycled and natural fiber markets, could divert demand. Also, stringent sustainability regulations and delays in adopting greener production technologies could hinder revenue growth potential for the Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market.

Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 Market Opportunities

• Bio-Based and Recycled Nylon: Developing bio-based and recycled nylon products can address rising consumer and regulatory demands for sustainable materials. Investments in R&D to enhance the performance of eco-friendly nylon can open up new revenue streams and avenues, particularly in automotive, electronics, and medical applications.
• Expanding into Emerging Markets: Geographic market expansion into high-growth regions like Asia Pacific, where industrialization and infrastructure projects are accelerating, can open avenues to cater to rising demand for nylon in engineering plastics and textiles. Establishing local production facilities or strategic partnerships with regional suppliers can reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
• Collaborations and Mergers: Companies can benefit from mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures to gain access to advanced technologies and expand their product portfolio. Collaborating with key players in end-use industries such as healthcare or aerospace for tailored nylon solutions can create lucrative opportunities.

Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 Market Segmentation:

By Product Type:

• Nylon-6
• Nylon-66

By Grade:

• Fiber Grade
• Injection Molding Grade
• Extrusion Grade

By Form:

• Fibers
• Resins
• Films

By Application:

• Automotive
• Engineering Plastics
• Electronics & Electrical
• Textiles
• Healthcare
• Others

By End-Use:

• Automotive
  • Engine Components
  • Fuel Systems
  • Door Handles & Roof Racks
• Electronics
  • Cable Insulation
  • Circuit Boards
  • Electrical Connectors
• Textiles & Apparel
  • Sportswear
  • Outdoor Gear
  • Fashion Accessories
• Industrial Applications
  • Gears and Bearings
  • Conveyor Parts
  • Power Tools
• Healthcare
  • Surgical Sutures
  • Prosthetics
  • Catheters
• Packaging
  • Flexible Films
  • Rigid Containers
• Aerospace
  • Structural Components
  • Fuel Line Systems

Segment Insights:

By Product Type:

The nylon-6 segment is projected to account for largest revenue share among the product type segments over the forecast period. Superior flexibility, impact resistance, ease of processing, and lower melting point compared to nylon-66 makes this material ideal for applications requiring repeated stress or vibration, such as automotive door handles, roof racks, and industrial components. Additionally, the growing use of Nylon-6 fibers in textiles and apparel, particularly for stretchable and durable sportswear, is driving demand. Its broad usage across industries such as packaging and consumer goods further solidifies its dominance.

By Grade:

The fiber grade segment is expected to lead due to its extensive application in textiles, carpets, and industrial fabrics. Nylons strength, elasticity, and resistance to wear make it a preferred choice for sportswear, outdoor gear, and fashion accessories. Increasing focus on lightweight, durable materials in textiles aligns with the demand for nylon fibers, particularly in emerging economies with expanding apparel industries.

By Form:

The fibers segment is expected to account for largest revenue share among the form segments over the forecast period. Fibers are integral to the production of textiles, industrial fabrics, and automotive upholstery. The lightweight and durable nature make these materials indispensable in the apparel, automotive, and industrial sectors. Rising consumer interest in sustainable and high-performance fabrics also supports demand.

By Application:

The engineering plastics segment is expected to account for largest share over the forecast period. Increasing use of engineering plastics in high-performance, lightweight automotive and industrial components and the rising trend of replacing metal with durable plastics in automotive and electronics sectors are expected to further support growth of this segment.

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By End-Use:

The automotive segment among the end-use segments is expected to maintain dominance in terms of revenue share over the forecast period. Increasing demand for lightweight and durable components to improve fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle emissions is a key factor supporting rising demand and use in this industry. High applicability of nylon in engine components, fuel systems, and under-the-hood parts make it a key material in this sector.

Regions and Countries

North America

• United States
• Canada
• Mexico

Europe

• Germany
• United Kingdom
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India

Rest of Asia Pacific

• Latin America
• Brazil
• Argentina

Rest of Latin America

• Middle East & Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates
• Israel
• Rest of MEA

Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 Market Regional Landscape:

Among the regional markets in 2023, Asia Pacific Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market accounted for over 40% share in the global market and is expected to register a CAGR of around 6.9% over the forecast period. Robust demand from automotive, electronics, and textile sectors, and presence of major manufacturers in China, Japan, and India are among the key factors driving market growth. Also, cost-efficient production, large consumer bases, and increasing adoption in automotive and industrial applications are other factors supporting rapid revenue growth of the Asia Pacific market. In addition, favorable government policies in China, promoting lightweight automotive components and sustainable materials, are contributing to high demand and use of these materials.

North America accounted for second-largest share in the global market in 2023, with the US registering highest volume demand, especially for high-performance nylon used in aerospace, automotive, and medical applications. Major manufacturers such as DuPont and Ascend Performance Materials are headquartered in the US, and are actively investing in research for eco-friendly and bio-based nylon products to meet stringent environmental regulations. Government support for sustainable materials and an advanced industrial base further strengthen position of North America among the leading markets.

Europe is also a major market, and demand from automotive and industrial sectors is high in Germany, the UK, and France. Presence of manufacturers, including BASF and Radici Group, and rising focus on sustainable nylon production and collaborations with automotive firms to develop lighter, more fuel-efficient materials in line with stringent EU regulations, are key factors expected to support revenue growth of the Europe market over the forecast period.

Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 Market Competitive Landscape:

Company List:

• BASF SE
• DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
• Ascend Performance Materials
• UBE Industries, Ltd.
• Toray Industries, Inc.
• Lanxess AG
• Royal DSM N.V.
• Asahi Kasei Corporation
• Celanese Corporation
• Radici Group
• EMS-Grivory
• Invista
• Shenma Industrial Co., Ltd.
• Hyosung Corporation
• Kolon Industries, Inc.

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market is shaped by leading players focused on innovation, sustainability, and regional expansion to maintain their market positions and expand consumer base. Companies such as BASF, Toray Industries, DuPont, and Ascend Performance Materials are investing significantly in R&D to create advanced nylon solutions tailored for high-demand applications in automotive, electronics, and medical sectors. A significant trend among these companies is the development of bio-based and recycled nylon to address rising environmental concerns and comply with increasingly stringent regulations globally.

In addition to innovation in product development, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships are approaches for market expansion. Companies are adopting these strategies to access new technologies or strengthen their positions in key regions like Asia Pacific and North America. Partnerships with automotive and electronics companies are also instrumental in developing application-specific nylon materials that meet industry standards for durability and lightweight properties. Furthermore, companies are expanding regionally and setting up manufacturing units closer to key markets in Asia Pacific, particularly in China and India, to reduce costs and ensure a steady supply to meet the local demand.

Recent Developments

• November 11, 2024: Toray Industries, Inc. announced a memorandum of understanding with Thailands PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited (GC) to develop mass production technology for adipic acid derived from non-edible biomass. This collaboration aims to assess feasibility and commercialization in Thailand and Japan, with plans to produce several thousand metric tons of bio-based muconic acid and adipic acid annually by 2030. The partnership builds on efforts initiated in 2023 to produce raw materials for nylon-6,6 using non-edible biomass sugars from Cellulosic Biomass Technology Co., Ltd., where Toray holds an 84% stake. GC employs advanced fermentation to convert biomass sugars into muconic acid efficiently, while Toray applies hydrogenation for high-purity bio-adipic acid production. This bio-based process eliminates nitrous oxide emissions, a greenhouse gas by-product in conventional methods, supporting sustainability goals.
• August 9, 2024: Invista has successfully completed the expansion of its nylon 6,6 polymer production facility at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park (SCIP). With an investment of USD 240 million, this project has doubled the site’s production capacity to 400,000 metric tons annually. This expansion strengthens INVISTA’s integrated nylon 6,6 value chain, addressing increasing demand for high-quality nylon products in various applications. The increased capacity enhances the companys ability to offer a reliable local supply, respond more swiftly to market demands, and support growth across downstream applications.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market size in 2024 and what is the projection for 2034?

A: The global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market size was calculated at USD 32.22 Billion in 2024 and expected to reach USD 61.63 Billion in 2034

Q: Which regional market accounted for largest revenue share in 2023, and what is the expected trend over the forecast period?

A: Asia Pacific is expected to account for largest revenue share in the global market over the forecast period.

Q: Which are the major companies are included in the global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market report?

A: Major companies in the market report are BASF SE, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Ascend Performance Materials, UBE Industries Ltd., Toray Industries Inc., Lanxess AG, Royal DSM N.V., Asahi Kasei Corporation, Celanese Corporation, Radici Group, EMS-Grivory, Invista (Koch Industries Inc.), Shenma Industrial Co. Ltd., Hyosung Corporation, and Kolon Industries Inc.

Q: What is the projected revenue CAGR of the global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market over the forecast period?

A: The global Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.7% between 2025 and 2034.

Q: What are some key factors driving revenue growth of the Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 market?

A: Some key factors driving market revenue growths are rising demand from automotive, electronics, textile and apparel, and aerospace industries.