N-Acetylcaprolactam

N-Acetylcaprolactam (CAS 1888-91-1, EC 217-565-6) is a cyclic amide derivative also known commercially as Activator O and referenced under codes NSC 522408 and TIMTEC-BB SBB008053. It carries no assigned E-code and is classified within the monomers and building blocks category.

In anionic polymerization of caprolactam, N-Acetylcaprolactam functions as an activator, accelerating ring-opening to produce nylon-6 at lower temperatures and with controlled chain growth. This mechanism is applied in reactive injection moulding and cast polyamide production. The textile and leather industries also use it as a reactive intermediate in finishing formulations.

N-Acetylcaprolactam is supplied as a clear liquid and falls under REACH registration requirements applicable to European market supply. Procurement quantities typically range from laboratory scale through bulk industrial volumes. Buyers should confirm current SDS documentation and purity specifications directly with the supplier prior to ordering.