A Fourier transform Raman study of water absorption by Nylon 6

Abstract

The changes to Fourier transform Raman spectra of Nylon 6 due to the presence of water have been examined. It is postualted that water molecules disrupt the inter-chain hydrogen-bonding which exists in the polyamide; water molecules have a greater propensity to interact at the basic carbonyl sites of Nylon than adjacent Nylon chains. The Raman spectra of thermally softented Nylon are also reported. Increased temperature is shown to destroy hydrogen-bonding. Comparison of thermally and solvent plasticised Nylon 6 indicate differing spectral changes.