Complete Guide to Polyacrylamide (PAM) Flocculants
Polyacrylamide (PAM) is a water-soluble polymer used as a flocculant, coagulant aid, and sludge conditioning agent. Hydrochemix supplies all three major PAM types for customers worldwide.
PAM Types and Applications
1. Anionic PAM (APAM)
- Molecular weight: 8-25 million
- Applications: Mining tailings settling, paper mill wastewater, electroplating wastewater, coal washing, sand and gravel washing
- Best for: Inorganic wastewater with high suspended solids, neutral to alkaline pH
2. Cationic PAM (CPAM)
- Molecular weight: 6-14 million
- Cationic charge density: 10-60%
- Applications: Municipal sludge dewatering, textile dye wastewater, food processing wastewater, livestock wastewater
- Best for: Organic-rich wastewater, sludge dewatering, negative-charged particles
3. Non-ionic PAM (NPAM)
- Molecular weight: 5-15 million
- Applications: Acidic wastewater treatment, mineral processing in low pH conditions
- Best for: Acidic conditions where ionic PAMs are less effective
Dosage Recommendations
| Application | Recommended Type | Typical Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Municipal Sludge Dewatering | Cationic PAM | 2-5 kg/ton dry sludge |
| Coal Washing Wastewater | Anionic PAM | 1-3 mg/L |
| Paper Mill Wastewater | Anionic PAM | 2-4 mg/L |
| Textile Effluent | Cationic PAM | 1-3 mg/L |
| Mining Tailings | Anionic PAM | 10-30 g/ton ore |
Proper PAM Solution Preparation
- Dissolve PAM in clean water at 0.05-0.1% concentration (0.5-1.0 g/L)
- Add powder slowly into vortex of stirring water
- Stir at 200-400 RPM for 60-90 minutes until fully dissolved
- Use within 24 hours for best results
- Avoid excessive shear which breaks polymer chains
Contact: jingshuicc@gmail.com for PAM selection guidance and competitive pricing.