All You Need to Know About Nylon for 3D Printing

3D printing nylon (polyamide) is a strong, stretchy artificial material made from synthetic polymers. Often fashioned into bristles, fabric, or sheets, and used especially in textiles and plastics, it is one of the most widely used polymers in the additive manufacturing sector, with popularity growing. The global market valuation for nylon 3D printing filament is projected to reach $7.82 billion by the end of 2034, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18.8%, according to DiReports. This thermoplastic is available in powder or filament form for technologies such as SLS, Multi Jet Fusion or FDM. These plastics are classified according to their chemical composition, according to the number of carbon atoms they contain.

The most well-known on the 3D printing market are undoubtedly PA12 and PA11, as well as PA6 for FDM. What are the characteristics of nylon when used for 3D printing? What are the applications? And who are the manufacturers? Find out more in our complete guide below!

How is Nylon Produced, and What Are Its Characteristics?

Nylon first appeared in 1935 in the form of nylon 6.6. It was developed by Wallace Carothers who then worked for the chemist DuPont. This first material was patented in 1937, commercialized in 1938 and remains the most widely used today. Nylon is mainly found in the textile industry thanks to its flexibility and resistance. It was used in 1940 for the first time in the production of women’s stockings. Even in 3D printing, one of the most interesting characteristics of this material is its flexibility. Nylon 6, on the other hand, was first produced by Paul Schlack in the laboratories of IG Farben and patented in 1941. All other forms of nylon came later.

Nylon 6.6 (Photo Credits: BASF)

In addition to those already mentioned, two other types of nylon are widely used in the industry: PA11 and PA12. They are distinguishable only by a single carbon atom, but have very different origins. PA11 is made from castor oil, a natural and renewable resource, while PA12 is made from petroleum. PA11 is considered a more sustainable alternative due to its biosourced origin, however, it’s not biodegradable. Like other polyamides, it must be sorted in a specialized collection system before being processed for recycling.

Nylon powder is widely used in additive manufacturing (Photo Credits: Materialise)

Nylon in 3D Printing

If we look at filaments, nylon is most often available with 6 carbon atoms, more commonly called PA6. It is a filament that has many interesting characteristics, including great flexibility, resistance to impact or abrasion. Additionally, its mechanical properties are quite close to ABS. However, note that nylon will require the presence of a heated plate inside the 3D printer (that can reach around 80°C) due to adhesion issues. It will also be necessary to take care of storage because it quickly absorbs the surrounding humidity (hygroscopic material) which could impact printing later.

In terms of extrusion temperature, the 3D printer will have to rise to 250°C, or even 220°C for certain types of nylon. Nylon filaments are a good alternative to polycarbonate, as they are easier to print, more durable and ideal for printing parts requiring strength.

When it comes to powder, the most commonly used Nylon is PA12. It is favored for its offers very high mechanical and thermal properties: it is extremely rigid, strong even at very low temperatures, stress resistant and has low moisture. In addition, it is easy to post-process (paint, dye, etc.). PA11 is also available in powder form and shares many of the same characteristics as PA12, but with some important differences. It has better thermal stability, light and UV resistance, and good elasticity.

Parts printed with PA11 also have greater durability, making it an ideal material for producing functional prototypes or final parts with important mechanical properties. It is important to note, however, that PA11 absorbs more moisture than PA12.

Parts printed with Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber Black 800g. (Photo Credits: Prusa Research)

When it comes to 3D printing, it is important to note that nylon in powder form can be reused for multiple prints. In particular, the HP Multi Jet Fusion process is known to use polyamides such as PA12 and PA11, and to have a higher refresh rate compared to SLS technology. About 70% of the powder is not used during 3D printing, but is mixed with new powder to minimize waste.

Applications for Nylon 3D Printing

Nylon is a very versatile material. Its flexibility and strength make it ideal for automotive applications, such as the manufacture of friction and deformation resistant parts. It is also used in the manufacture of gears, hinges, and as a replacement for certain plastics used in injection molding. Additionally, it is biocompatible, which means that it can be used to manufacture prostheses and other parts that will be in contact with the skin. Finally, it is a non-abrasive material, which makes it ideal for high use items and interior parts that tend to wear. It can also be easily painted to give it a more attractive appearance.

A part that has been 3D printed with PA12 (Photo Credits: Sculpteo)

The Main Manufacturers and Material Price

Nylon filaments (FDM/FFF)

Major manufacturers of nylon filaments now include Volumic, Polymaker, 3DXTech, and Fiberlogy, as well as machine manufacturers such as Prusa and Stratasys. Nylon can be reinforced with carbon fiber or fiberglass for a higher-performance composite material. For a classic spool (500 grams, 1.75 mm diameter) you should count between $20 and $40 depending on the brand; composite variants climb to $60-150 or more depending on the reinforcement and performance grade.

Nylon powders (SLS/MJF)

As far as nylon powder is concerned, PA11 and PA12 are the two dominant grades. The French chemical group Arkema remains the largest producer of PA11 powder, marketed as Rilsan PA11, a polymer it has produced since the 1950s. For PA12, Arkema and Evonik are the main powder producers, while machine makers EOS, 3D Systems and Farsoon offer their own PA12 powders. Forward AM, formerly BASF’s additive manufacturing division before its spin-out as an independent company, produces PA6 powder (alongside its own PA11 filament line). Formlabs also produces nylon powder for its own SLS systems.

There are also polyamide powders filled with carbon fiber, Kevlar or glass beads for higher-performance applications. The price of one kg of PA11 or PA12, standard or reinforced, generally falls in the $50-100 range depending on the composition.

Photo Credits: HP

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