Polyacrylamide (PAM) is one of the most widely used polymers in water treatment, industrial production, mining, and oil extraction. PAM can be used as a flocculant, retention aid, and soil conditioner, making it an indispensable chemical in many fields. However, due to its unique properties, some difficulties may arise during its use or storage, affecting PAM's performance and efficiency. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to help PAM Distributors and users understand and solve these problems.
What is Polyacrylamide? How does Polyacrylamide Work?
Polyacrylamide is a water-soluble polymer made from acrylamide monomers (AM). Its main function is to bridge and flocculate suspended particles and impurities, causing them to form larger flocs that can settle and be filtered more quickly. Polyacrylamide comes in three types: anionic, cationic, and non-ionic, which account for its wide range of applications.
Anionic Polyacrylamide: Suitable for clarifying wastewater and dewatering sludge containing positively charged particles.
Cationic Polyacrylamide: Commonly used to treat wastewater or sewage containing negatively charged particles.
Non-ionic Polyacrylamide: Used in neutral systems or as a co-additive to optimize performance.
Common Problems and Solutions Related to Polyacrylamide
Reason
The type or charge density of polyacrylamide does not meet the requirements of the water environment.
The molecular weight is too high or too low.
The dosage is incorrect during the mixing process
The PAM is unevenly distributed in the water body.
Solution
Take water samples and conduct jar tests to determine the optimal type, molecular weight and dosage of polyacrylamide.
Adjust the dosing system, stir evenly to ensure that PAM can be evenly added to the target water body.
For wastewater with complex components, if necessary, use PAM with other Coagulants, such as PAC, aluminium sulfate, etc.
If phenomena such as clumping, poor solubility, or sludge formation in the water tank occurs, it indicates some problems with the dissolution process.
Reasons for this occurrence:
High molecular weight polyacrylamide dissolves relatively slowly and is not completely dissolved.
The water temperature or pH value is outside the optimal range for PAM dissolution.
Insufficient stirring during the dissolution process can also cause these phenomena.
Solutions:
Use a controlled pre-dissolution tank, gradually adding PAM to the water while stirring.
Ensure the water temperature is within the standard dissolution range for PAM.
Difficulty in pumping, uneven dosage or equipment blockage usually caused by the following factors:
The concentration of the PAM solution is too high
When using high-molecular-weight PAM, appropriate dilution should be carried out.
Solution
Dilute PAM to the recommended concentration.
Adopt the progressive rubber rod method to allow PAM to flow out sufficient water absorption time.
Test the viscosity and adjust the molecular weight or concentration as needed
Excessive foam in tanks, reactors, or pipelines reduces operating efficiency. This may be caused by:
Rapid mixing or mechanical aeration.
PAM formulations containing surfactants.
Solutions:
Reduce the stirring speed during the addition process.
Use a defoamer compatible with PAM if necessary.
Ensure the PAM solution is added gradually.
Gold Standard Protocol: Quick Guide to Perfect PAM Solution
A correct preparation process ensures maximum PAM performance.
1. Preparation
Use clean, neutral-pH water. Calculate the target concentration (typically 0.1–0.5%) and ensure the mixer creates a strong vortex without air entrainment.
2. Wet-in (Critical Step)
Start agitation and slowly sprinkle PAM powder into the vortex at the point of highest turbulence. Add gradually over several minutes to ensure complete wetting and prevent clumping.
3. Aging
After addition, mix for 5–10 minutes, then reduce agitation. Allow the solution to hydrate and uncoil for 30–60 minutes.
4. Transfer & Dosing
Use low-shear pumps and smooth piping. Apply promptly—prepared PAM solution should be used within 24–72 hours.
By understanding common problems and implementing targeted solutions, operators can significantly improve efficiency, reduce costs and meet environmental compliance standards. Adhering to best practices in the selection, storage, dosing and monitoring of PAM can ensure stable performance and maximize the return on investment. Whether you are dealing with municipal sewage, industrial wastewater or enhancing oil recovery, understanding how to troubleshoot PAM faults is crucial for the success of your operation.
Post time: Dec-16-2025