Polyacrylamide (PAM) is a remarkable synthetic polymer celebrated for its exceptional versatility and wide-ranging industrial applications. As a leading chemical manufacturer and supplier in China, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is dedicated to providing high-quality PAM products that drive innovation and efficiency across numerous sectors, including water treatment, papermaking, mining, and oil recovery. This guide aims to demystify the properties of PAM and highlight its essential industrial roles, helping procurement professionals and scientists understand why it's a preferred choice when they need to buy polyacrylamide.

What is Polyacrylamide (PAM)?

PAM is a water-soluble polymer derived from the polymerization of acrylamide. It is known for its high molecular weight and its ability to dissolve in water to form viscous solutions. PAM exists in several forms, with the most common being anionic (APAM), cationic (CPAM), and non-ionic (NPAM), each differing in their ionic charge. This cationic or anionic nature allows PAM to interact with charged particles in various media, forming the basis of its functional applications.

Key Properties of PAM:

  • High Molecular Weight: PAM polymers can possess extremely high molecular weights, often reaching millions of Daltons. This high molecular weight is critical for their effectiveness as flocculants and thickeners.
  • Water Solubility: PAM readily dissolves in water, forming viscous solutions. The viscosity is directly related to its molecular weight and concentration.
  • Ionic Charge: The presence of anionic (carboxyl groups), cationic (amine groups), or no charge determines PAM's interaction with different types of suspended solids. This property is fundamental to its use as a flocculant and coagulant aid.
  • Adsorption and Bridging: PAM molecules can adsorb onto the surface of suspended particles and, due to their long chain structure, bridge multiple particles together, forming larger aggregates (flocs).
  • Stability: PAM exhibits good stability under a range of pH and temperature conditions, although extreme conditions can lead to hydrolysis or degradation.

Major Industrial Applications:

The unique properties of PAM make it a vital component in numerous industrial processes:

  • Water Treatment: PAM is a highly effective flocculant and coagulant aid for treating industrial wastewater, municipal sewage, and drinking water. It aggregates suspended solids, facilitating their removal through sedimentation or filtration. When you buy polyacrylamide for water treatment, you are investing in cleaner water and more efficient processes.
  • Papermaking: In the paper industry, PAM is used as a retention aid and drainage enhancer, improving paper quality and production efficiency. It also aids in the retention of fillers and pigments.
  • Oil and Gas Industry: PAM is extensively used in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) to increase water viscosity, in drilling fluids to control viscosity and reduce fluid loss, and as a friction reducer in hydraulic fracturing.
  • Mining and Mineral Processing: PAM serves as a flocculant for solid-liquid separation in mineral processing, aiding in the clarification of tailings and the recovery of valuable minerals.
  • Textile Industry: It can be used as a sizing agent and a thickener for printing pastes.

Why Choose NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD.?

As a leading polyacrylamide manufacturer in China, we are committed to providing superior quality products and technical support. We offer competitive polyacrylamide water treatment price options and reliable delivery. Our expertise ensures you receive the right PAM grade for your specific industrial needs. When you need to buy polyacrylamide, trust our commitment to quality and service.

Contact NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. today for a quote and samples, and let us be your trusted partner for all your Polyacrylamide requirements.