Adipic Acid Supplier — Industrial & Polymer Grade

What Is Adipic Acid?

Adipic Acid (hexanedioic acid, C₆H₁₀O₄) is a white crystalline dicarboxylic acid produced industrially from cyclohexane via KA oil oxidation with nitric acid. It is one of the highest-volume specialty dicarboxylic acids, primarily used as a monomer in nylon-6,6 and polyurethane synthesis. At room temperature it is a stable, non-volatile solid that is sparingly soluble in water and freely soluble in alcohols and acetone.

Nylon-6,6 and Polyamide Production

The dominant use of adipic acid — accounting for roughly 90% of global consumption — is as a co-monomer with hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) in the production of nylon-6,6 (polyamide 6,6). Nylon-6,6 fibres are used in engineering textiles, carpets, and apparel, while the engineering resin grade is used in automotive components, electrical connectors, and industrial parts. Adipic acid purity and particle size distribution are critical parameters for fiber-grade applications.

Polyurethane Foams and Elastomers

Adipic acid-based polyester polyols are widely used in the production of flexible polyurethane foams for furniture, bedding, and automotive seating, and in cast elastomers and adhesives. Adipate polyols offer a favorable balance of flexibility at low temperatures and hydrolytic stability, making them preferred over phthalate alternatives in many foam formulations.

Plasticizers and Other Applications

Dioctyl adipate (DOA) and diisononyl adipate (DINA), produced by esterification of adipic acid with C8 and C9 alcohols, are cold-flexibility plasticizers for PVC films, wire insulation, and food packaging materials. Adipic acid is also a permitted food acidulant (E355), used as a leavening acid and flavor enhancer in baking powders and gelatins.