Polyacrylamide (PAM) is a powerful tool in industrial processes, but its effectiveness hinges on proper preparation and handling. Whether you are using it for water treatment, oil recovery, or papermaking, understanding the correct procedures is essential for achieving optimal results and ensuring safety.

PAM is typically supplied as a powder or in a liquid/emulsion form. Powdered PAM requires dissolution into an aqueous solution before it can be effectively used. This process, often referred to as 'make-up,' is critical and requires attention to several key factors:

Preparing Polyacrylamide Solutions

1. Water Quality: Use clean, preferably fresh, water at room temperature. While PAM can dissolve in cold water, the process is significantly slower. Avoid using highly saline or acidic/alkaline water for initial dissolution, as this can affect the polymer's conformation and performance. If your process water has specific challenging characteristics, consider using dedicated make-up water.

2. Equipment: While specialized dissolving equipment is available, simple mixers with moderate agitation are often sufficient, especially for powdered PAM. The goal is to achieve good dispersion without excessive shearing, which can degrade the polymer. Adding the powder slowly and uniformly to the agitated water is crucial to prevent clumping.

3. Concentration: Typical preparation concentrations range from 0.1% to 0.3% (weight/volume) for powdered PAM. Higher concentrations can be used but may require more robust mixing and can increase the risk of poor dissolution or polymer degradation. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations, which are often provided on product datasheets.

4. Dissolution Time: It's important to allow adequate time for the polymer chains to fully uncoil and hydrate. This 'maturation' or 'aging' period can range from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the PAM type, temperature, and mixing intensity. Insufficient dissolution time can lead to poor performance.

Handling and Storage of PAM

Proper handling and storage are vital to maintain the quality and efficacy of PAM:

  • Powdered PAM: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent caking and degradation. Exposure to humidity can cause the powder to agglomerate, making it difficult to dissolve.
  • PAM Solutions: Prepared solutions have a limited shelf life. While they can be used immediately, prolonged storage can lead to degradation, reduced viscosity, and loss of effectiveness. It is best to prepare solutions just before use or store them in sealed containers for short periods, following manufacturer guidelines.

Safety Precautions

While PAM itself is generally considered low in toxicity, handling the powder can generate dust. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask, when handling powdered PAM. Avoid inhaling dust and prevent it from coming into contact with skin and eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

As a leading polyacrylamide manufacturer and supplier, we provide detailed technical data sheets and application guides to ensure you can utilize our products safely and effectively. We encourage you to consult these resources and contact our technical support team for any specific queries regarding PAM preparation and handling. Investing in correct procedures guarantees the performance of your PAM investment.