Nylon-12 is a synthetic polymer belonging to the family of polyamide polymers.

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• "Nylon" refers to a family of synthetic polymers, known as polyamides. Nylon is widely used in various industries, from fashion to industry, due to its strength and flexibility.
• "12" refers to 12 carbon atoms in the starting monomer.

Description of raw materials used in production

• Laurolactam - A monomer used in the production of Nylon-12 and derived from renewable sources (1).
• Catalyst Agents - Substances that speed up the polymerization reaction.

Step-by-step summary of industrial chemical synthesis process

• Monomer Preparation - Laurolactam is prepared and purified.
• Polymerization - The laurolactam undergoes a polymerization reaction in the presence of catalyst agents to form the Nylon-12 polymer.
• Drying - The produced Nylon-12 is dried to remove any residual moisture or solvents.
• Granulation - The Nylon-12 is then cut or granulated into the desired form, such as beads or powders.

It appears in the form of granules or white powder.

What it is for and where

Cosmetics

Bulking agent. It regulates the water content, dilutes other solids, can increase the volume of a product for better flow, acts as a buffer against organic acids, helps to keep the pH of the mixture within a certain level.

Opacifying agent. It is useful into formulations that may be translucent or transparent to make them opaque and less permeable to light.

Viscosity control agent. It controls and adapts, Increasing or decreasing, viscosity to the required level for optimal chemical and physical stability of the product and dosage in gels, suspensions, emulsions, solutions. 

CAS   25038-74-8

Safety

The EFSA Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel  concluded that Nylon-12 is safe in the present practices of use and concentration (2).

Commercial Applications

Cosmetics. Used as a mattifying agent, to enhance the texture and spreadability of products such as foundations, powders, and eyeshadows.

Skincare Products. Added to formulations for its ability to absorb excess oil, making products suitable for oily or combination skin.

Makeup. Due to its ability to create a smooth, velvet finish, it's utilized in primers, foundations, and other makeup products.

Sun Care Products. Can be used in sunscreens to improve the feel on the skin and the distribution of the product.

References_____________________________________________________________________

(1)  Griehl, W., & Ruestem, D. (1970). Nylon-12-preparation, properties, and applications. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry, 62(3), 16-22.

(2) Burnett, C., Heldreth, B., Bergfeld, W. F., Belsito, D. V., Hill, R. A., Klaassen, C. D., ... & Andersen, F. A. (2014). Safety assessment of nylon as used in cosmetics. International journal of toxicology, 33(4_suppl), 47S-60S.