Polyacrylamide (PAM) is a non-toxic, white, powdery chemical agent, categorized primarily by its ionic character into three types: cationic, anionic, and non-ionic. It is well-suited for treating water bodies with high levels of inorganic suspended solids and high turbidity—effectively facilitating coagulation, sedimentation, and purification in water containing 10–100 kg/m³ of suspended solids (such as sediment-laden water).
Polyacrylamide can be used either independently or in combination with other coagulants. When used in combination, the recommended procedure is to add the polyacrylamide first, ensure thorough mixing, and subsequently add the coagulant to optimize flocculation and sedimentation.
Due to its excellent performance, polyacrylamide and its derivatives have a wide range of applications. They serve as highly efficient flocculants, thickeners, strengthening agents, and surfactants, and are extensively utilized across various sectors—including water treatment, papermaking, the petroleum industry, mining and metallurgy, geology, textiles, and light industry—making it a highly versatile polymeric chemical additive.
