PA6 (Nylon 6) vs PEEK (unfilled): Completely different price/performance tiers
PA6 (Nylon 6) vs PEEK (unfilled)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
PA6 (Nylon 6)
Polyamide 6 (Nylon 6) β the most widely used engineering thermoplastic. Excellent combination of mechanical strength, toughness, wear resistance, and chemical resistance. Properties are moisture-sensitive β conditioned (50% RH) values are significantly lower than dry values. Trade names include Ultramid B (BASF), Akulon (DSM), Zytel (DuPont). Used for gears, bearings, bushings, cable ties, structural brackets, and automotive under-hood components.
PEEK (unfilled)
Polyetheretherketone β the premium engineering thermoplastic. Exceptional mechanical properties maintained to 260Β°C continuous use. Resistant to virtually all organic solvents and acids. Biocompatible (ASTM F2026). Used as metal replacement in aerospace, automotive engine parts, medical implants (spinal cages), semiconductor wafer handling, and oil/gas downhole seals.
| PA6 (Nylon 6) | PEEK (unfilled) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | β | β |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 10350 | ISO 10350 |
Chemical composition (wt%) β Pro
| Element | PA6 (Nylon 6) | PEEK (unfilled) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polycaprolactam (from Ξ΅-caprolactam) | 99β99.9% | β | β |
| Base Polymer (Polyether Ether Ketone) | β | 99β99.9% | β |
Mechanical properties β Pro
| Property | PA6 (Nylon 6) | PEEK (unfilled) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 75β85 | 90β110 | MPa |
| Yield Strength | 70β80 | β₯ 90 | MPa |
| Elongation | 30β100 | 30β50 | % |
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density | |||
| Glass Transition Temp (Tg) | |||
| Melting Point | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Tensile Strength | |||
| Tensile Modulus | |||
| Elongation at Break | |||
| Charpy Impact (notched) | |||
| Density | |||
| Melting Point | |||
| Glass Transition Temp | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Water Absorption (saturation) | |||
| Continuous Use Temp |
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PEEK has higher UTS (100 vs 80 MPa), 260Β°C vs 80Β°C use temp, no moisture sensitivity, and superior chemical resistance. But PEEK costs 50-100x more per kg. PA6 is the right choice for 95% of general engineering applications; PEEK only when temperature, chemical, or biocompatibility demands justify the premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PA6 (Nylon 6) the same as PEEK (unfilled)?
PA6 (Nylon 6) and PEEK (unfilled) have a 20% composition overlap. Completely different price/performance tiers
Can I replace PA6 (Nylon 6) with PEEK (unfilled)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (20% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PA6 (Nylon 6) and PEEK (unfilled)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. PA6 (Nylon 6) is a Polymers grade, while PEEK (unfilled) is a Polymers grade.
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
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