Polyamide refers to macromolecular compounds in which amide groups are regularly built into the hydrocarbon chains. The most important types are Polyamide 6 and Polyamide 6.6; the well-known branded yarns Tactel® and Meryl® are made from PA 6.6. Other brand names include Supplex®, Helanca®, Nylon® and Perlon®.
Depending on cross-section, spinning and processing, the appearance ranges from very fine (microfibre) to coarse, shiny to matt and smooth to bulky (textured). Polyamide is easy to care for, shape-retaining, does not wrinkle or shrink, and is durable, tear- and abrasion-resistant, light, soft and quick-drying; it is barely absorbent and not lightfast. The branded polyamides Tactel® and Meryl® additionally impress with their fineness, high tear strength and very low pilling.
Wash polyamide on a delicates programme at 30–60 °C, spin briefly and hang it up dripping wet so it dries quickly. Iron only briefly and at a medium temperature at most. In underwear, polyamide provides an elegant sheen, a beautiful drape, a soft handle and high colour brilliance; it is often combined with elastane for stretch.
You can find more fibres in the overview of synthetic man-made fibres.
