Polyacrylamide (PAM) is a linear, water-soluble polymer formed from the polymerization of acrylamide monomers. It exhibits flocculating, bonding and drag-reducing properties and is widely used in water treatment, oil extraction, papermaking, textiles, agriculture, and other fields.

Physical Properties

Appearance: White or slightly yellow powder with a particle size less than 4mm.

Solubility: Freely soluble in water, insoluble in organic solvents such as benzene, ether, and esters.

Density: 1.302 g/mL (23°C).

Hygroscopicity: The solid product is hygroscopic, increasing with increasing ionicity.

Chemical Properties

Thermal Stability: Stable below 100°C. Decompose and produce nitrogen gas above 150°C and the molecular chain undergoes imidization, rendering it insoluble in water.

Hydrolysis: At pH > 10, it readily hydrolyzes to form a semi-reticular structure, significantly enhancing its thickening effect.

Mechanism of Action: Flocculation is achieved through charge neutralization and bridging adsorption. Polar groups adsorb particles and promote the formation of a dispersed phase network structure.

Applications

Water Treatment: Used for treating inorganic suspensions, such as coal slurry sedimentation and tailings recovery.

Petroleum Extraction: Improve oil recovery efficiency and reduce well blockage.

Papermaking: Enhance paper strength and improve fiber dispersion.

Textiles: Used as a sizing additive to improve yarn quality.

Agriculture: Improve soil structure and increase fertilizer utilization.

Product Types

By Ionic Properties: Nonionic, anionic, cationic, and zwitterionic.