Nylon in construction
Nylon is a polymer which has a molecular structure built up from a large number of similar units bonded together based on aliphatic or semi-aromatic polyamides. The first nylon was produced by DuPont in 1935.
Nylon is a thermoplastic material that can be used for a wide range of applications in the construction industry. When heated it can be moulded into a range of shapes or films, or it can be drawn into fibres. It is is used in sheets, rods, tubes, pipes, screws, washers, bolts, spacers, safety nets, plumbing fittings, and so on. Its fibres can be woven together to produce a silky and lightweight fabric that can be used in carpeting, canopies, sheets, and so on.
The advantages of nylon include its strength, durability, high pressure-bearing capacity and corrosion resistance. It also has a low coefficient of friction meaning that it can be used in applications that involve rotation or sliding with little or no lubrication.
Nylon is also waterproof and fast-drying. However, it can dissolve when exposed to chemicals such as phenols, alkalis and acids.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
When buildings reflected the local resources available.
CIOB reports 57% are using artificial intelligence technologies.
More of England’s ‘hidden heroes’ will be celebrated.
CIAT calls for retrofit to be a priority.
Version 6 is now available, along with guidance for ECA members.
Post-War Homes: mid-century British architecture. Book review.
CIAT reflects on the party conferences.
CIOB announce the winners of the Art of Building photography competition.
National Scheme of Delegation introduced.
The cost of employing people remains a concern.
Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems.
ECA calls on members to comment on draft 4th edition.
Bringing together expertise and creating cultural benefits.