Caprolactam Properties
- Physical property: White Powder
- Chemical Formula: C6H11NO
- Molecular weight: 113.16 g/mol
- Packaging form: Bag
What is Caprolactam?
Caprolactam is a chemical compound used in the synthesis of nylon 6 (poly-caprolactone). It is commonly synthesized from petrochemical-derived raw materials such as benzene, cyclohexane, and ammonia.
Caprolactam appears as white crystalline powder and is soluble in water. It has a wide range of industrial applications. The primary use of caprolactam is in the synthesis of nylon 6. Additionally, it is used in the production of various intermediate compounds, chemical reactions, plastics, fibers, paints, coatings, as well as in fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and water-soluble film coating materials.
Due to the broad industrial use of caprolactam, the quality and price of commercially produced caprolactam can vary based on market supply and demand.
In Which Industries is Caprolactam Used?
Caprolactam is a versatile chemical compound with a wide range of industrial applications. Its main application is as a raw material for the synthesis of nylon 6 (poly-caprolactone). It is also used in the following industries:
Plastic industry: Caprolactam is used in the production of certain plastic materials, particularly in the production of high-strength plastics like nylon 6.
Textile industry: Caprolactam is used in fiber production. Nylon 6 fiber is a popular material in the textile industry due to its high strength.
Chemical industry: Caprolactam serves as an intermediate compound in certain chemical reactions, particularly in the production of various organic compounds.
Cosmetic industry: Caprolactam is used in the production of cosmetic products such as skincare products, shampoos, and hair care products.
Food industry: Caprolactam is used in the production of certain food packaging materials.
Other industries: Caprolactam is also used in industries such as fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and water-soluble film coating materials.
In short, caprolactam is a versatile chemical compound with widespread industrial applications.
How is Caprolactam Produced?
Caprolactam is generally synthesized from petrochemical-derived raw materials such as benzene, cyclohexane, and ammonia.
The production of caprolactam involves approximately six stages. The stages are as follows:
Oxidation of cyclohexane: Cyclohexane is reacted with a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen oxides. This reaction in an oxidizing environment produces cyclohexane oxidation products (caprolactone and cyclohexanol).
Hydrolysis of caprolactone: Caprolactone, a product of cyclohexane oxidation, is hydrolyzed with water using an acid catalyst such as sulfuric acid. This reaction results in the formation of caprolactam.
Separation of caprolactam: Caprolactam is separated from other compounds that arise as hydrolysis products.
Crystallization of pure caprolactam: Caprolactam is crystallized using pure water.
Drying of caprolactam: Caprolactam is dried under vacuum and then mixed.
Packaging of caprolactam: Caprolactam is packaged in various forms for shipment.
The production of caprolactam is a technically challenging process that requires high energy and costs. However, the wide industrial use of caprolactam makes this process economically attractive.