Polyacrylamide (PAM) is widely recognized as an “industrial all-purpose additive” due to its extensive use in water treatment, oil & gas, mining, papermaking, textile, and chemical industries.
However, polyacrylamide is not a single product. In industrial applications, PAM is classified into four major types, each with different ionic properties, performance characteristics, and application ranges.
Choosing the wrong type of PAM can lead to poor flocculation efficiency, excessive dosage, and higher operating costs.
What Is Polyacrylamide (PAM)?
Polyacrylamide is a water-soluble high molecular weight polymer known for its excellent:
- Flocculation and coagulation performance
- Adsorption and particle-bridging capability
- Thickening and drag-reduction properties
Based on ionic characteristics, PAM is divided into:
- Anionic Polyacrylamide (APAM)
- Cationic Polyacrylamide (CPAM)
- Nonionic Polyacrylamide (NPAM)
- Amphoteric Polyacrylamide
1. Anionic Polyacrylamide (APAM)
Key Characteristics
- Negatively charged polymer chains
- High molecular weight
- Best suited for neutral to alkaline wastewater
Main Applications
Water Treatment
- Municipal wastewater treatment
- Chemical and industrial wastewater
- High-turbidity raw water clarification
- Coal washing, mining, metallurgy, steel industry
Oil & Gas Industry
- Drilling fluid and waste mud treatment
- Drag reduction
- Water shutoff control
- Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR)
Papermaking & Other Industries
- Improves filler and pigment retention
- Enhances dry and wet paper strength
- Textile sizing agents
- Construction grouting and soil conditioning
2. Cationic Polyacrylamide (CPAM)
Key Characteristics
- Positively charged polymer
- Works mainly through charge neutralization
- Highly effective for negatively charged sludge
Core Application: Sludge Dewatering
Cationic PAM is the most widely used flocculant for sludge dewatering, suitable for:
- Belt filter press
- Centrifuge
- Plate & frame filter press
Performance Advantages
- Fast floc formation
- Large and strong flocs
- High shear resistance
- Low filter cake moisture
- Reduced chemical consumption
Typical industries include municipal wastewater plants, food and beverage factories, papermaking, petrochemical plants, oilfields, and cosmetic sludge treatment.
3. Nonionic Polyacrylamide (NPAM)
Key Characteristics
- No ionic charge
- Excellent performance in acidic wastewater
- Often used with inorganic coagulants (PAC / PFS)
Main Applications
- Acidic industrial wastewater treatment
- Chemical effluent clarification
- Oilfield drilling fluids and mud treatment
- Papermaking and textile sizing
- Sugar juice and fermentation broth clarification
4. Amphoteric Polyacrylamide
Key Characteristics
- Contains both cationic and anionic functional groups
- Effective across a wide pH range
- Highly adaptable to complex wastewater systems
Main Applications
- Complex industrial wastewater
- Oily wastewater
- Sludge dewatering under fluctuating pH
- Papermaking additives
- Oilfield water shutoff and profile control
- Metal recovery from acidic systems
Polyacrylamide Product Specification
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Polyacrylamide (PAM) |
| Types | Anionic / Cationic / Nonionic / Amphoteric |
| Appearance | White or off-white powder |
| Molecular Weight | 5 – 25 million (customizable) |
| Ionic Degree | 5% – 80% (for APAM / CPAM) |
| Solid Content | ≥ 88% |
| Residual Monomer | ≤ 0.05% |
| Packaging | 25 kg kraft bag / 750–1000 kg jumbo bag |
| Shelf Life | 24 months |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1、Which PAM is best for sludge dewatering?
Cationic Polyacrylamide (CPAM) is generally the most effective option for sludge dewatering applications.
2、Can PAM be used with PAC or PFS?
Yes. PAM is commonly used as a coagulant aid together with PAC or PFS to improve floc size and settling efficiency.
3、Do you offer customized PAM?
Yes. Molecular weight, ionic degree, and formulations can be customized based on your water quality and process requirements.
Request a Quote & Technical Support
Looking for a reliable Polyacrylamide (PAM) supplier?
- PAM for water treatment
- PAM for sludge dewatering
- Oilfield-grade PAM
- Customized industrial formulations
Contact us today for professional technical support, product selection guidance, and competitive factory pricing.
