Adipic acid is an intermediate monomer used for the production of polyamides (Nylon), polyester polyols for polyurethanes, lubricants, plasticizers, wet strength resins, coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomers as well as pharmaceutical products, perfumes and cosmetics.
Adipic acid is a monomer used in the production of nylon 66 by polycondenation reaction with hexamethylene diamine. It is also used as a food ingredient and its esters are plasticizers especially in poly vinyl chloride. Further, it reacts with barium hydroxide and undergoes ketonization reaction to get cyclopentanone. In addition to this, it finds application in polyurethane foams, lubricants, adhesives, baking powder, gelling aid and in food flavoring.