polüacrylamide

Polyacrylamide, often abbreviated as PAM, is a water-soluble polymer formed from acrylamide monomers. Its chemical formula is (C3H5NO)n. It exists as a solid, typically in granular or powdered form, and is white in color. When dissolved in water, polyacrylamide forms a viscous solution. The properties of polyacrylamide can be significantly altered by varying the molecular weight and charge density of the polymer chains. This can be achieved by copolymerizing acrylamide with charged monomers or by modifying the amide groups after polymerization.

Polyacrylamide finds widespread application due to its ability to thicken liquids, bind particles, and form gels. In the oil and gas industry, it is used as a friction reducer in hydraulic fracturing fluids and as a mobility control agent in enhanced oil recovery. In water treatment, it acts as a flocculant, aiding in the removal of suspended solids from wastewater and drinking water. Its gelling properties are utilized in various fields, including electrophoresis for separating biomolecules and in cosmetics as a thickening agent. It is also used in agriculture as a soil conditioner to improve water retention and reduce erosion. However, concerns exist regarding residual acrylamide monomer, which is a neurotoxin and a suspected carcinogen, necessitating careful manufacturing and handling practices.