What is Nylex?

Among the general public, the term “nylex” is sometimes used interchangeably with “nylon,” or vice versa. But what exactly is nylex? This confusion arises because some people consider these two types of plastic to be the same and do not differentiate between them. However, nylon and nylex are two distinct types of plastic with different properties. So, what are nylon and nylex, and how do they differ? In this article, we will explore the differences between these two materials.

Differences Between Nylon and Nylex

Nylon and nylex differ in various aspects. Below are the key factors that set them apart:

Material Composition:

The primary difference between nylon and nylex lies in their composition. Nylon is made from lightweight polyethylene, while nylex is primarily made from heavy polyethylene. However, nylex is not entirely composed of heavy polyethylene; about 80% of its composition is heavy polyethylene, with the remaining 20% being lightweight polyethylene. Adding lightweight polyethylene to nylex gives it transparency, softness, and better sealing capabilities.

Appearance:

The most noticeable difference, easily recognizable by the general public, is in their appearance. Nylon products are much softer, more transparent, and shinier than nylex, and they allow some light to pass through. In contrast, nylex products are dry, rough, and opaque.

Thickness:

Nylex can be produced in extremely thin thicknesses, whereas nylon cannot. This means that a larger number of nylex items can be made per kilogram compared to nylon. This is particularly important for vendors looking for cost-effective promotional plastics, as nylex is usually more economical.

Printing:

Glossy, oil-based printing is used for nylon products because it gives a more attractive result. On the other hand, due to the opacity of nylex, there is little difference between oil-based printing and PVC printing. However, PVC printing is more economical, making it the preferred choice for printing on nylex.

Application:

Due to its rigidity and higher load-bearing capacity, nylex is suitable for industries that deal with relatively heavy products, such as produce and fruit shops. Nylon, however, is primarily used for carrying lightweight goods in stores, such as boutiques and pharmacies.

It is worth mentioning that some products, like freezer bags, garbage bags, disposable tablecloths, and various store plastics, can be made from either nylon or nylex.

How to Identify Nylon and Nylex

Now that we have a thorough understanding of the differences between nylon and nylex, here is a simple example to make it easier to distinguish between them:

•Plastics that are soft and make less noise when crumpled are nylon.

•Plastics that are relatively stiff and make a crackling noise when crumpled are nylex.

Comparison Between Nylon and Nylex

Material: Nylon is made from lightweight polyethylene, while nylex is made from heavy polyethylene.

Texture: Nylon products are softer than nylex products.

Appearance: Nylon is glossy and transparent, while nylex is matte and rough.

Noise: Nylex makes a crackling sound when crumpled, unlike nylon.

Thickness: Nylex can be produced in very thin thicknesses, while nylon cannot.

Printing: Oil-based colors are used for nylon printing, while PVC colors are used for nylex.

Tensile Strength: Nylon is stretchable, and when torn, the tear resists further damage. Nylex, however, tears along a straight line to the end.

Durability: Nylex is much stronger and more durable than nylon, making it the ideal choice for carrying heavy items.