The papermaking industry relies on a sophisticated interplay of chemicals to produce high-quality paper efficiently and sustainably. Among these essential additives, Polyacrylamide (PAM) plays a crucial role, primarily as a retention and drainage aid, and also as a strength enhancer.

In the papermaking process, pulp slurry, consisting of fibers, fillers, and other additives, moves along a wire mesh where water drains away, forming a sheet. Effective retention of fine fibers and fillers is vital to minimize material loss and ensure the desired paper properties. PAM, particularly through its bridging and flocculation capabilities, helps aggregate these fine particles, trapping them within the forming paper web. This not only reduces the amount of material lost to the white water system but also improves the efficiency of the dewatering process, leading to better drainage and faster machine speeds.

The choice of PAM type for papermaking applications is critical. While anionic PAM can be used, cationic PAM is often preferred due to its strong affinity for the negatively charged cellulose fibers and fillers commonly found in pulp. The degree of cationic charge and molecular weight of the PAM can be optimized to suit specific paper grades and machine conditions, aiming for maximum retention and drainage efficiency without negatively impacting other paper properties such as printability or strength.

Beyond retention and drainage, PAM can also contribute to the dry and wet strength of the paper. By interacting with the fiber network, it can improve inter-fiber bonding. Understanding the precise mechanism of how to use polyacrylamide effectively involves considering the chemistry of the pulp furnish, the additives used, and the operational parameters of the paper machine.

Ningbo Inno Pharmchem Co., Ltd. supplies a range of Polyacrylamide products specifically designed for the papermaking industry. Our commitment to quality ensures that papermakers can achieve improved retention rates, faster drainage, and enhanced paper quality, contributing to both economic efficiency and environmental sustainability in paper production.