The Essential Dicarboxylic Acid Monomer for Nylon 66, Polyurethanes, and High-Performance Engineering Plastics: Adipic Acid (CAS# 124-04-9)

Adipic acid (CAS# 124-04-9), also known as hexanedioic acid or 1,4-butanedicarboxylic acid, is a dicarboxylic acid with the molecular formula C₆H₁₀O₄ and a molecular weight of 146.14 g/mol. Its molecular structure consists of a six-carbon straight chain with two terminal carboxyl groups (-COOH), which provides the difunctionality essential for polycondensation reactions. As a white crystalline powder with a melting point of 152.1°C, adipic acid is sparingly soluble in water and exhibits a characteristic tart taste. The compound is typically supplied in two primary grades: Industrial Grade (≥99.7% purity) for polymer and chemical manufacturing and Food Grade (meeting FCC specifications) for food and pharmaceutical applications.

Adipic acid is one of the most important dicarboxylic acids in global commerce, occupying a foundational role across multiple industrial value chains. As the key monomer for nylon 66 production—accounting for the majority of global consumption—adipic acid underpins the manufacture of high-strength fibers, engineering plastics, automotive components, and advanced textiles. Beyond nylon, adipic acid serves as a critical precursor for polyurethanes, plasticizers, coatings, adhesives, and food additives, while also finding application in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and specialty chemicals. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important dicarboxylic acid.

Core Application Fields and Demand

Market demand for adipic acid (CAS# 124-04-9) is concentrated in four primary sectors: nylon 66 production (approximately 55–60% of global consumption), polyurethane manufacturing (approximately 15–20%), plasticizers and specialty polymers (approximately 10–15%), and food, pharmaceutical, and other industrial applications (approximately 10–15%). Its difunctional carboxyl groups and versatility as a monomer serve as the core drivers of sustained demand growth across all sectors.

In nylon 66 production, adipic acid is the essential dicarboxylic acid monomer that undergoes polycondensation with hexamethylenediamine to form nylon 66 (polyhexamethylene adipamide). This high-performance engineering polymer is characterized by exceptional mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making it indispensable in automotive components (engine covers, air intake manifolds, electrical connectors), industrial textiles (airbags, tire cord, conveyor belts), consumer goods (carpets, upholstery, apparel), and engineering plastics. The automotive lightweighting trend and the shift toward durable, high-strength materials are driving sustained demand for nylon 66 and, consequently, adipic acid. The global nylon fiber production growth and expanding automotive manufacturing have been key drivers of adipic acid market expansion in recent years.

In polyurethane manufacturing, adipic acid is used to produce polyester polyols, which serve as building blocks for flexible polyurethane foams (used in furniture, bedding, and automotive seating), rigid foams (insulation materials), coatings, elastomers, and adhesives. The growing construction insulation market and the increasing use of polyurethane in automotive and furniture applications support steady demand in this segment.

In plasticizers and specialty polymers, adipic acid is used to produce adipate esters such as dioctyl adipate (DOA) and diisononyl adipate (DINA), which function as plasticizers in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other polymers to improve flexibility and low-temperature performance. Adipic acid also finds application in the production of specialty polyesters, lubricants, and adhesives.

In food and pharmaceutical applications, adipic acid is recognized as a food additive with E-number E355. It is used as an acidifying and buffering agent, leavening agent, pH control agent, and flavoring agent in baked goods, nonalcoholic beverages, condiments, dairy products, gelatin desserts, and meat products. In pharmaceutical formulations, adipic acid is incorporated into controlled-release tablets to achieve pH-independent release for both weakly basic and weakly acidic drugs. It is also used as an acidifying and buffering agent in intramuscular, intravenous, and vaginal formulations. Additionally, adipic acid is a cosmetic ingredient functioning as a buffering agent.

In other applications, adipic acid is used in the production of biodegradable plastics, renewable chemicals, gelling aids, and baking powder.

Major Market Participants

The global supply system for adipic acid (CAS# 124-04-9) features a pattern of “large-scale multinational chemical corporations, specialized polymer manufacturers, and Chinese producers dominating large-scale production.” The global adipic acid market was valued at approximately USD 4.9 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 6.1 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 3.1%. Other estimates place the market at USD 7.46 billion in 2025, growing to USD 9.57 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 5%. The market is driven by sustained demand from nylon 66 production, polyurethane manufacturing, and industrial applications.

In the global industrial and large-scale production segment, key players include BASF SE, which in July 2025 strengthened its polyamide 6.6 production capabilities by acquiring a 49% stake in Alsachimie from DOMO Chemicals; Ascend Performance Materials, which successfully produced bio-based adipic acid and nylon 6.6 from used cooking oil-derived feedstocks in December 2024; Shandong Hualu-Hengsheng Chemical Co., Ltd., a major Chinese producer of adipic acid; and Shandong Hongye Chemical Group, with an adipic acid production capacity of 140,000 mts/year. Other significant manufacturers include LiaoYang Tiancheng Chemistry Co. Ltd. and Liaoyang Huifu Chemical Factory. Sinochem Holdings and Weifang Tainuo Chemical Co., Ltd. are also key players in the Chinese adipic acid market.

In the global specialty and research-grade segment, suppliers such as Thermo Fisher Scientific (Alfa Aesar) offer high-purity adipic acid for laboratory and research applications. XinChem is a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality adipic acid from China, renowned for its reliable supply and stringent quality control. XinChem specializes in producing both Industrial Grade (≥99.7%) and Food Grade (meeting FCC specifications) adipic acid, serving diverse application needs across nylon, polyurethane, plasticizer, food, and pharmaceutical industries.

Regional Market Dynamics

The global adipic acid market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific (particularly China) and consumption distributed across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, aligned with the automotive, textile, construction, and food processing industries in these regions.

The Asia-Pacific region is the dominant force in the global adipic acid market, with China serving as the world’s manufacturing hub. China is one of the world’s major producers of adipic acid, and demand is expected to continue growing at approximately 3% through 2033. Chinese manufacturers, including XinChem, offer the compound in multiple grades—Industrial Grade and Food Grade—and various physical forms, serving both domestic and export markets. The rapid growth of automotive manufacturing, textile production, and construction in China, India, and Southeast Asia continues to drive regional consumption.

North America remains a key market for adipic acid, driven by demand from the automotive industry (nylon 66 components), textiles, and food processing. The United States hosts numerous automotive manufacturers, textile producers, and food processors that require high-quality adipic acid for their operations. The region’s well-established regulatory framework, including FDA GRAS status for food applications, and emphasis on product quality support demand for high-grade adipic acid.

Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements, including REACH registration, and a strong focus on sustainability and bio-based production routes. European automotive manufacturers, engineering plastics producers, and food processors demand high-purity adipic acid with comprehensive documentation. BASF SE and DOMO Chemicals are key players in the European adipic acid landscape. The region is also at the forefront of developing bio-based adipic acid production technologies.

Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa represent growing markets, with demand driven by expanding automotive manufacturing, construction, and food processing industries.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

As a widely used industrial chemical, food additive, and pharmaceutical excipient, adipic acid (CAS# 124-04-9) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.

In the United States, adipic acid is listed in the FDA’s Substances Added to Food (EAFUS) database and is recognized as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) under 21 CFR 184.1009 for use in food applications when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice. The ingredient meets the specifications of the Food Chemicals Codex. Adipic acid is permitted as a flavoring agent, leavening agent, and pH control agent in various food categories with specific maximum levels. The compound has a FDA Unique Ingredient Identifier (UNII) of 76A0JE0FKJ.

In the European Union, adipic acid must comply with REACH registration requirements (EINECS 204-673-3). It is permitted as a food additive (E355) and as a cosmetic ingredient functioning as a buffering agent.

GHS classification and handling: Adipic acid is classified as an irritant. Standard industrial hygiene practices should be followed during handling, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, protective clothing, and eye/face protection). The compound should be stored in a cool, dry place in tightly closed containers, protected from moisture.

Environmental considerations: Traditional adipic acid production involves the oxidation of cyclohexane and cyclohexanol with nitric acid, which generates nitrous oxide (N₂O), a potent greenhouse gas. This has prompted manufacturers to develop more sustainable production methods. The industry is shifting toward bio-based production routes using renewable feedstocks such as glucose and other biomass sources, as well as catalytic hydrogenation pathways, electrochemical methods, and fermentation-based bioprocesses. These technological shifts aim to reduce environmental impact, lower carbon footprints, and address regulatory requirements. The development of bio-based adipic acid and nylon 6.6—produced from used cooking oil or plant-derived materials—represents a significant trend in the industry, with bio-based nylon 6.6 achieving a 25% lower carbon footprint compared with conventional nylon while maintaining equivalent mechanical strength and performance.

Future Outlook

The market outlook for adipic acid is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. The global market is projected to grow from USD 4.9 billion in 2025 to USD 6.1 billion by 2032 (CAGR 3.1%), with other estimates indicating growth from USD 7.46 billion in 2025 to USD 9.57 billion by 2030 (CAGR 5%). Between 2025 and 2030, the market is expected to add USD 2.1 billion in value, supported by textile durability upgrades and construction insulation demand. Between 2030 and 2035, an additional USD 2.4 billion in growth is forecast, reflecting bio-based adipic acid scale-up and regulatory pushes for lower emissions.

Key growth drivers include:

1. Electric vehicle lightweighting demand: The growing electric vehicle market drives demand for lightweight, high-performance engineering plastics such as nylon 66 for automotive components.
2. Shift toward sustainable polymers: The development of bio-based adipic acid and nylon 6.6 production routes is creating new growth opportunities.
3. Growth in construction insulation materials: Increasing demand for polyurethane foams in building insulation supports steady consumption of adipic acid.
4. Expansion of automotive manufacturing: The growth of the automobile industry, with car ownership rising in key markets, drives demand for adipic acid in automotive components.
5. Increasing packaging applications: Rising demand for flexible packaging and high-performance materials supports adipic acid consumption.
6. Technological advancements in adipic acid synthesis: Improvements in production efficiency and sustainability, including bio-based routes, are enhancing market growth.

Challenges and considerations:

• Feedstock price volatility: Fluctuations in the prices of cyclohexane, benzene, and other petrochemical feedstocks may impact production costs. Adipic acid prices rose 12 to 18% in Q1 2025 due to benzene and cyclohexane feedstock cost increases.
• Environmental and regulatory pressures: Traditional production generates greenhouse gas emissions, and increasing regulatory scrutiny is driving the need for more sustainable production methods.
• Competition from alternatives: The market faces competition from other dicarboxylic acids and alternative monomers for polymer production.
• Supply chain dynamics: Geopolitical factors and trade policies may affect the global supply chain and pricing.

To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly purity and consistency), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and the development of sustainable production methods. Companies that can offer high-purity products, flexible packaging options, and technical support for nylon, polyurethane, food, and pharmaceutical applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.

Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)

As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and polymer intermediates, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the automotive, textile, construction, food processing, and pharmaceutical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality Adipic Acid (CAS# 124-04-9) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for nylon producers, polyurethane manufacturers, plasticizer formulators, food processors, and pharmaceutical companies seeking this versatile dicarboxylic acid.

1. Technical Advantages

Advanced Manufacturing and Quality Control
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its adipic acid products. The production process incorporates advanced technologies, enabling the delivery of products meeting the highest industry standards. XinChem offers Industrial Grade (≥99.7%) for polymer and industrial applications and Food Grade (meeting FCC specifications) for food and pharmaceutical applications. Strict process control ensures consistent product quality, minimal impurities, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable performance in nylon 66 production, polyurethane manufacturing, food processing, and pharmaceutical formulations.

Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data, melting point, and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s adipic acid meets the stringent requirements of nylon, polyurethane, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.

2. Product Advantages

High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers adipic acid in multiple grades: Industrial Grade (≥99.7%) for nylon 66, polyurethane, plasticizer, and specialty polymer applications; and Food Grade (meeting FCC specifications) for food and pharmaceutical applications. The product’s high purity and consistent quality minimize the risk of impurities and variability, making it suitable for demanding applications across multiple industries.

Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:

• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₀O₄
• Molecular Weight: 146.14 g/mol
• CAS Number: 124-04-9
• EINECS Number: 204-673-3
• Appearance: White crystalline powder
• Purity: Industrial Grade (≥99.7%), Food Grade (meeting FCC specifications)
• Melting Point: 152.1°C
• Solubility: Sparingly soluble in water

Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities to industrial-scale bags (25 kg, 500 kg, 1000 kg) and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation. Recommended storage conditions include storage in a cool, dry place in tightly closed containers, protected from moisture.

3. Application Fields

As a versatile dicarboxylic acid, Adipic Acid (CAS# 124-04-9) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:

Nylon 66 Production:

• Essential dicarboxylic acid monomer for nylon 66 (polyhexamethylene adipamide)
• Key raw material for high-strength fibers, engineering plastics, and automotive components
• Used in airbags, tire cord, carpets, upholstery, and industrial textiles

Polyurethane Manufacturing:

• Precursor for polyester polyols for flexible and rigid polyurethane foams
• Raw material for coatings, adhesives, and elastomers

Plasticizers and Specialty Polymers:

• Production of adipate esters (DOA, DINA) as plasticizers for PVC and other polymers
• Component in specialty polyesters, lubricants, and adhesives

Food and Pharmaceutical Applications:

• Food additive E355: acidifying agent, buffering agent, leavening agent, pH control agent, and flavoring agent
• Pharmaceutical excipient in controlled-release formulations
• Acidifying and buffering agent in injectable and topical formulations
• Cosmetic ingredient (buffering agent)

Other Applications:

• Biodegradable plastics and renewable chemicals
• Gelling aids and baking powder

4. Service Support

Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of nylon 66 polymerization processes, guidance on polyurethane formulation, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help. Custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial tons are available upon request.

Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including customs clearance and documentation.

Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, including REACH, TSCA, FDA GRAS, and other regional regulations, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.

5. Reasons to Choose XinChem

• Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in organic chemical manufacturing and supply.
• Quality: Rigorous quality control, consistent product quality, and adherence to international standards.
• Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
• Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs, including multiple grades and packaging options.
• Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.

Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!

Website: www.xinchem.com

Email: sales1@xinchem.com

WhatsApp: +86 18049800532