Polyacrylamide (PAM)
Polyacrylamide
“The ultimate flocculant for solid-liquid separation; engineered polymer chains for maximum efficiency.” Arnico’s Polyacrylamide (PAM) represents the gold standard in water-soluble polymers. With a high molecular weight and precisely controlled ionic charge density, our PAM grades are designed to deliver rapid flocculation, superior sludge dewatering, and exceptional water clarification. It’s not just a chemical; it’s a performance-driven solution for demanding industrial separation processes.
Description More
Polyacrylamide (PAM) ARNICO: The Versatile High-Performance Flocculant and Rheology Modifier for Unmatched Process Optimization
Polyacrylamide (PAM), with the general chemical formula (C₃H₅NO)ₙ, marketed under the trusted brand name PAM ARNICO, represents the pinnacle of water-soluble synthetic polymer technology. It is a high-molecular-weight polymer whose primary function is to act as a highly efficient flocculant, coagulant aid, thickener, and friction reducer across a vast spectrum of industrial and municipal applications. ARNICO’s Polyacrylamide is the result of advanced polymer chemistry, precision manufacturing, and stringent quality control, designed to provide an unrivaled solution for solid-liquid separation, sludge dewatering, and process optimization. Unlike simple inorganic coagulants, PAM works through a powerful bridging mechanism, where its long polymer chains bind multiple particles together, forming large, dense, and fast-settling flocs. This makes it an indispensable tool for professionals seeking to maximize efficiency, reduce operational costs, and achieve superior water clarity.
The true power of PAM ARNICO lies in its exceptional versatility, achieved through the production of distinct grades with tailored ionic charges. This allows for the precise targeting of specific types of suspended solids and process conditions, making it the definitive choice for a wide array of challenges.
ARNICO formulates, manufactures, and delivers Polyacrylamide in three primary, highly specialized grades, each designed for a unique set of applications:
1. Anionic Polyacrylamide (APAM): This grade carries a negative charge along its polymer chain. It is the workhorse for treating industrial wastewater and mineral processing streams containing positively charged or inorganic particles, such as metal oxides, clays, and tailings. Its high molecular weight promotes the formation of very large, robust flocs, making it exceptionally effective in applications like mining, oil & gas (as a friction reducer in hydraulic fracturing), and papermaking.
2. Cationic Polyacrylamide (CPAM): This grade carries a positive charge, making it the ideal choice for the treatment of organic sludge and effluents with a net negative surface charge. This includes most municipal wastewater sludges, food processing wastes, and textile industry effluents. CPAM is the undisputed king of sludge dewatering, offering unmatched performance in belt filter presses, screw presses, and centrifuges to produce a drier, more compact sludge cake.
3. Non-ionic Polyacrylamide (NPAM): This grade is uncharged and is used in applications where a neutral polymer is preferred, often in very acidic or highly alkaline environments where charged polymers may be less effective. It is frequently used in papermaking as a retention aid, in mining, and in certain specialized water treatment scenarios as a flocculant or filtration aid.
The decisive competitive advantage of ARNICO Polyacrylamide lies not only in its carefully engineered molecular weight and charge density but also in the consistency and purity of the product. ARNICO guarantees a low residual monomer content, high molecular weight, and rapid dissolution, ensuring that every batch delivers predictable, repeatable, and maximum performance. This commitment to quality makes ARNICO a reliable partner for industries that demand nothing short of excellence.
Technical Specifications, Guaranteed Analysis, and Grades of ARNICO Polyacrylamide
This section presents the engineering foundation and scientific backbone of the product. The table below directly represents ARNICO’s qualitative commitments and forms the definitive basis for the Certificate of Analysis (COA) issued for every single production batch. These certified parameters are the primary criteria for evaluation, quality assurance, and formal acceptance of consignments by leading industries worldwide. At ARNICO, quality is a guaranteed, verifiable specification.
Table of Technical Specifications by Grade
| Parameter | Anionic PAM (APAM) | Cationic PAM (CPAM) | Non-ionic PAM (NPAM) | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White, Free-Flowing Granular Powder | White, Free-Flowing Granular Powder | White, Free-Flowing Granular Powder | – | Visual Observation |
| Ionic Charge | Anionic (Negative) | Cationic (Positive) | Non-ionic (Neutral) | – | Colloid Titration |
| Molecular Weight | 8 – 25 Million | 5 – 12 Million | 5 – 15 Million | g/mol | Viscometry (Intrinsic Viscosity) |
| Charge Density | 5 – 50 | 5 – 70 | N/A (0) | % or mol% | Colloid Titration |
| Solid Content | ≥ 90.0 | ≥ 90.0 | ≥ 90.0 | % by weight (w/w) | Gravimetric Analysis (Drying) |
| pH (0.5% Solution) | 6.0 – 8.0 | 5.0 – 7.0 | 6.0 – 8.0 | – | pH Meter |
| Residual Monomer (Acrylamide) | ≤ 0.05 | ≤ 0.05 | ≤ 0.05 | % by weight (w/w) | High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) |
| Bulk Density | 0.60 – 0.80 | 0.60 – 0.80 | 0.60 – 0.80 | g/cm³ | Graduated Cylinder and Balance |
| Dissolution Time | ≤ 60 | ≤ 60 | ≤ 60 | minutes | Standard Stirring Method |
| Water Insoluble Matter | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.5 | % by weight (w/w) | Gravimetric Analysis after Filtration |
Expert Parameter Guide (For Informed and Professional Selection)
A true professional understands that the value of a polymer lies in its detailed molecular architecture. This guide will empower you to make the most informed technical and economic decisions:
Ionic Charge: The Key to Selecting the Right Product. The single most important factor in choosing a PAM grade is matching its ionic charge to the surface charge of the target solids. Using the wrong charge is the most common cause of poor performance.
Anionic (APAM): Effective for inorganic solids with a positive or neutral surface charge in water, such as clays, metal oxides, and mineral tailings. Use in mining, oil & gas, and papermaking.
Cationic (CPAM): Effective for organic solids with a negative surface charge, such as biological sludge, bacteria, and organic pigments. The definitive choice for municipal sludge dewatering.
Non-ionic (NPAM): Best for applications with very low or no ionic content, or where a neutral charge is necessary to avoid interference, such as in certain papermaking processes.
Molecular Weight: The Size and Speed of Flocs. This parameter defines the length of the polymer chain. A higher molecular weight provides longer chains, which can bridge more particles together, resulting in larger, denser flocs and faster settling rates. For applications like mining and dredging where maximum floc size is needed, a very high molecular weight APAM is ideal. For sludge dewatering, a balance between molecular weight and charge density is key.
Charge Density: The Strength of the Ionic Attraction. This defines the number of charged groups along the polymer chain. A higher charge density leads to stronger electrostatic attraction to the target particles. In CPAM, a higher charge density often improves the release of bound water from organic sludge, leading to a drier sludge cake. The optimal charge density for a specific sludge type is typically determined through laboratory testing (e.g., a jar test or a dewatering test).
Residual Monomer (Acrylamide): The Purity and Safety Index. Acrylamide is a known neurotoxin and potential carcinogen. ARNICO’s strict specification of ≤ 0.05% is a testament to the advanced polymerization technology used in production. This ultra-low level ensures the product is safe for operators and, in specific approved grades, meets the stringent requirements for drinking water treatment.
Technical, Economic, and Operational Advantages of ARNICO Polyacrylamide with Proven Industrial Applications
This section moves beyond the technical datasheet to explore the practical benefits and real-world applications that have made ARNICO Polyacrylamide a preferred choice for professionals globally.
Key Advantages: Why is ARNICO Polyacrylamide the Superior Choice?
1. Unmatched Flocculation Efficiency and Dramatic Cost Reduction.
The primary function of PAM is to accelerate solid-liquid separation. Its powerful bridging mechanism creates flocs that are significantly larger, heavier, and more shear-resistant than those formed by inorganic coagulants alone. This leads to a dramatic increase in settling velocity in clarifiers and thickeners. The result is increased plant throughput without new infrastructure, more efficient filtration with longer filter cycles, and significant reductions in the dosage of primary coagulants (like PAC or Ferric Chloride) by acting as a coagulant aid.
2. The Gold Standard for Sludge Dewatering and Volume Reduction.
Cationic PAM (CPAM) is the industry standard for optimizing mechanical sludge dewatering. By efficiently coagulating the fine, negatively charged organic particles, it releases bound water and conditions the sludge for optimal performance in belt filter presses, screw presses, and centrifuges. The direct result is a substantially drier sludge cake, often with 20-40% higher solids content. This translates directly into lower hauling and disposal costs, reduced fuel for incineration, and a smaller environmental footprint.
3. Exceptional Performance as a Friction Reducer (FR) in Oil & Gas.
High molecular weight Anionic PAM is a critical component in hydraulic fracturing and enhanced oil recovery. When injected into water, it acts as a highly effective friction reducer, drastically lowering the energy required to pump fluids at high rates. This allows for the use of smaller pumps and reduces operational energy consumption significantly.
4. Improved Process Efficiency in Papermaking.
In the paper industry, both APAM and NPAM are used as retention and drainage aids. They help to bind fine cellulose fibers and mineral fillers to the paper sheet, reducing the loss of raw materials in the whitewater. This leads to lower raw material costs, improved paper quality (strength and formation), and a cleaner, more efficient papermaking process.
5. Versatility Through Tailored Chemistry and Ultra-Low Impurities.
The availability of three distinct ionic grades (Anionic, Cationic, Non-ionic) with adjustable molecular weights and charge densities means there is an ARNICO PAM product engineered for nearly any solid-liquid separation challenge. Furthermore, its ultra-low residual monomer content (≤0.05%) sets a new standard for product purity and safety, making it a trusted choice for even the most sensitive applications.
Specialized and Proven Fields of Application:
Municipal and Industrial Wastewater Treatment:
Sludge Dewatering: The primary use of CPAM in belt filter presses, screw presses, and centrifuges.
Primary and Secondary Clarification: As a coagulant aid to improve the settling of solids in primary clarifiers and to improve the performance of Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) units.
Effluent Polishing: Reducing TSS and turbidity in final effluent before discharge.
Mining and Mineral Processing:
Tailings Management: Flocculating fine tailings in thickeners to recover process water and create a denser, more stable tailings deposit.
Concentrate Filtration: Aiding in the dewatering of mineral concentrates.
Oil, Gas, and Petrochemicals:
Hydraulic Fracturing: Used as a friction reducer to enable high-rate pumping.
Produced Water Treatment: Flocculating oil droplets and solids from produced water to meet disposal or reuse standards.
Pulp and Paper Industry:
Retention and Drainage Aid: Improving fines and filler retention, leading to better fiber yield and faster paper machine speeds.
Wastewater Treatment: Treating the mill’s effluent for TSS and COD reduction.
Agriculture and Soil Remediation:
Soil Stabilization: Preventing soil erosion and improving water retention in agricultural soils and construction sites.
Safety, Health, and Operational Integrity; The Cornerstone of ARNICO’s Commitment and Your Assurance of a Reliable Partnership
This section is dedicated to the two foundational pillars of ARNICO’s commitment: first, complete transparency and the provision of actionable guidance for safe handling; and second, the exposition of an integrated quality assurance system that elevates our product to a full-fledged engineering solution.
Comprehensive Safety, Handling, and Storage Guide
ARNICO Polyacrylamide, in its dry powder form, is a high-molecular-weight polymer. While it is chemically inert, its physical properties demand specific safety protocols to prevent slip hazards and ensure product integrity.
Mandatory Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Before any handling or preparation of solutions, the use of the following protective layer is essential:
Gloves: Standard work gloves to prevent skin contact with the powder and provide grip.
Eye and Face Protection: Safety glasses with side shields or chemical goggles to prevent dust from entering the eyes.
Body Protection: Standard long-sleeved work clothing.
Respiratory Protection: A dust mask (such as N95) is recommended when opening bags and pouring the powder to avoid inhaling fine dust particles.
Critical Safety Hazard: Slip Risk.
This is the most significant hazard associated with PAM. When PAM powder or its solution comes into contact with water, it becomes extremely slippery.
Any spills must be cleaned up immediately with a dry broom or industrial vacuum. NEVER wash a spill down with water, as this will create a highly dangerous, slick surface that is almost impossible to walk on.
Emergency Procedures and First Aid Measures:
On Skin: Wash the affected area with soap and water.
In Eyes: Rinse immediately and thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.
Inhalation: Move the person to fresh air. If coughing or breathing difficulty occurs, seek medical advice.
Accidental Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Drink 1-2 glasses of water. Seek medical advice if a large quantity is ingested.
Golden Rules for Optimal Storage and Solution Preparation:
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse away from direct sunlight and moisture. The powder is hygroscopic and will absorb moisture, causing caking and reduced solubility. Keep bags sealed when not in use.
Shelf Life: When stored properly, the product has a shelf life of up to 24 months.
Solution Preparation: Always add the PAM powder slowly and evenly to the vortex of well-agitated water. Never dump the powder into stagnant water. Use a dedicated, low-shear mixing system for optimal dissolution. The prepared solution is also very slippery.
Incompatible Materials: The product is generally compatible with most materials. Avoid contact with strong oxidizers.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS): The complete and official Safety Data Sheet, compliant with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), is always available for download on the official ARNICO website. It is a legal and professional imperative that all employers and safety officers study this document thoroughly.
ARNICO’s Quality Assurance System and Technical Services; Beyond Being Just a Supplier
Quality assurance at ARNICO is a holistic, end-to-end process that starts with raw material selection and continues through to post-sale technical support.
Guaranteed Certificate of Analysis (COA): Every consignment of an ARNICO product is accompanied by its own unique, batch-specific COA. This certificate contains the actual results of laboratory analyses, verifying key parameters such as molecular weight, charge density, and residual monomer content, guaranteeing the product’s full conformity to our stringent specifications.
Expert On-Site Technical and Engineering Services: Our team of experienced application specialists will serve as your dedicated technical arm, providing invaluable support including:
Specialized Laboratory & Jar Testing: The scientific determination of the optimal PAM grade and ideal dosage using representative samples of your actual sludge or wastewater to achieve your exact dewatering or clarification goals.
Make-Down System Consultation: Advising on the correct design and selection of polymer preparation and dosing units to ensure efficient and reliable solution make-up without damaging the polymer chains.
Periodic Site Visits and Continuous Performance Monitoring: Ensuring the long-term, stable performance of the product and proactively adapting the solution to align with variations in your process.
For more information, to request a free expert technical consultation, to ask for a sample COA, or to place an order, please visit the ARNICO website and contact our commercial and technical specialists. ARNICO: Your Trusted Partner for Clarity and Sustainable Quality.
Technical documents for Polyacrylamide products, including Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and Certificate of Analysis (COA), are available to customers upon request.
To receive these documents and additional information, please contact the company’s technical or sales department or contact us via email.
Commitment to Arnico quality; production cycle Polyacrylamide
Trust of Major Industries in Arnico
Stable supply and strong logistics chain
With Arnico, production stoppages are a thing of the past. Our global supply network and strategic warehouses ensure that your raw materials are supplied on time and without interruption, even amidst market fluctuations.
Quality assurance with a valid Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Every shipment of Arnico is shipped with a dedicated analysis sheet. Ensure full compliance with international standards before unloading. Our transparency is your peace of mind.
Transparent pricing and elimination of unnecessary intermediaries
Direct sourcing and eliminating intermediaries has brought our prices closer to global rates. With Arniko, you will experience smart, economical, and completely transparent shopping.
Specialized technical advice; beyond a supplier
Arnico’s technical team is by your side before you make a purchase. From selecting the right grade to sample analysis, our detailed, complimentary consultation guides you toward the best decision. Arniko—your technical partner on the path to growth.
Quick Guide to Buying
Polyacrylamide
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)? Is it possible to make a trial purchase?
The minimum order quantity (MOQ) for Polyacrylamide is one ton (1000 kg) equivalent to 40 bags of 25 kg. However, for new buyers, Arniko offers a trial batch of 200 to 500 kg at a special price to test the quality of the product in its production line. Samples of 1 to 5 kg are also sent free of charge to accredited customers. For purchases of more than 5 tons, a significant volume discount is applied.
What documents and certificates do you provide to ensure quality?
Arnico provides the following complete package of documents for each shipment:Certificate of Analysis (COA)from a National Standards Organization accredited laboratory
Commercial with full specifications
ISO 9001:2015 certificate (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management)
NSF/ANSI 60 approval for food grade (suitable for drinking water)
SGS or Bureau Veritas inspection certificate can also be provided upon request All these documents will be provided to the buyer for final approval before loading, and in case of non-compliance, the buyer has the right to cancel.
What are the payment methods and transaction guarantees for foreign buyers?
Yes. Food Grade Polyacrylamide is FDA approved and meets NSF/ANSI 60 standards for use in drinking water treatment. Products supplied by Arnico are completely free of harmful heavy metals (such as arsenic, mercury and lead) and come with accurate laboratory analysis. We provide a certified Certificate of Analysis (COA) for every export shipment.
What is the delivery time and shipping cost to different destinations?
The order delivery time is as follows:
Stock orders: Maximum 5 to 7 business days after receiving the advance payment
Production orders (custom): Maximum 15 to 21 business days
Sea export: Depending on Destination, 20 to 45 days plus shipping time
Shipping cost is calculated in two ways:
FOB (port of origin): includes product price + loading in Bandar Abbas, Asaluyeh or Imam Khomeini
CIF (port of destination): includes cost price + sea freight + insurance to port of destination
Arnico Logistics Team cooperates with 3 reputable international shipping companies and calculates the best rates for neighboring countries, Central Asia, Africa, Europe and China. Also, the exact production and shipping schedule is announced to the buyer on a weekly basis so that the purchasing planning process is completely transparent.
We are answering your questions.
Your satisfaction is our credit.
Our support team, consisting of experienced experts, is ready to answer your questions and challenges in the shortest possible time. Our goal is to provide you with a precise and practical solution.