PA12 (Nylon 12) vs PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene): 0% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
PA12 (Nylon 12) vs PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
PA12 (Nylon 12)
Polyamide 12 — the long-chain polyamide with the lowest moisture absorption of all PA grades (0.1-0.15% vs PA6: 1.5%). Excellent dimensional stability in humid environments. Best chemical resistance among polyamides (oils, fuels, hydraulic fluids). Lowest density of all PA (1.01 g/cm³). Also the dominant 3D printing (SLS/MJF) material. Trade names include Rilsamid (Arkema), Grilamid L (EMS), TECAMID 12 (Ensinger), Vestamid L (Evonik). Used for fuel lines, brake lines, pneumatic tubing, cable sheathing, and 3D-printed functional parts.
PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)
Low-density polyethylene — branched chain structure gives flexibility, transparency, and easy processing. THE film/packaging polymer: cling wrap, carrier bags, squeeze bottles, shrink wrap. Also used for cable insulation, agricultural film, and coatings. Lower density (0.91-0.93) and strength than PE-HD but much more flexible.
| PA12 (Nylon 12) | PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 10350 | ISO 1872 |
Chemical composition (wt%) — Pro
| Element | PA12 (Nylon 12) | PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polylaurolactam (from laurolactam/12-aminolauric acid) | 99–99.9% | — | — |
| Base Polymer (Polyethylene) | — | 99.5–99.9% | — |
Mechanical properties — Pro
| Property | PA12 (Nylon 12) | PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 45–60 | 8–16 | MPa |
| Yield Strength | 40–50 | — | MPa |
| Elongation | 100–300 | 200–600 | % |
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density | |||
| Melting Point | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) |
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PA12 (Nylon 12) and PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) have significantly different compositions (0% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PA12 (Nylon 12) the same as PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)?
PA12 (Nylon 12) and PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) have a 0% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace PA12 (Nylon 12) with PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (0% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PA12 (Nylon 12) and PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. PA12 (Nylon 12) is a Polymers grade, while PE-LD (Low-Density Polyethylene) is a Polymers grade.
Related Comparisons
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.