Nylon PA11 (Polyamide 11)
A bio-sourced polyamide derived from castor oil with significantly higher ductility and impact resistance than PA12. PA11 is used where parts must withstand repeated bending, impact, or vibration without fracturing.
About Nylon PA11 (Polyamide 11)
Polyamide 11 is derived from renewable castor oil (bio-based carbon content >97%), making it an increasingly attractive option for sustainability-conscious applications. Beyond its environmental credentials, PA11 offers genuinely superior mechanical properties for certain applications.
With elongation at break of 30–45% (vs 15–25% for PA12) and notched Izod impact strength approximately 2× that of PA12, PA11 is the material of choice for parts subjected to repeated flexing, snapping, or impact — such as clips, living hinges, sports equipment, and automotive interior components.
The trade-off is moderately lower stiffness and tensile strength compared to PA12, and a slightly higher material cost.
Typical Applications
- Living hinges and snap-fit closures
- Sports equipment and protective gear
- Automotive interior clips and brackets
- Prosthetics and orthotics
- Fluid-handling components
Engineering Considerations
- Higher material cost than PA12 (~20–30% premium)
- Lower stiffness — not suitable where rigidity is the primary requirement
- Bio-based sourcing may be relevant for sustainability reporting
- Moisture absorption is similar to PA12