Polyacrylamide (PAM) is a versatile water-soluble polymer widely used in water treatment, oil recovery, mining, and paper-making industries. The production of PAM
involves several key steps, including monomer purification, polymerization, hydrolysis (for anionic PAM), and post-processing. Below, we outline the standard production
methods for different types of PAM.
The production of PAM starts with high-purity acrylamide (AM), which can be synthesized via two primary methods:
Chemical Catalysis Method: Acrylonitrile reacts with water in the presence of a copper-based catalyst under controlled conditions to produce AM. This method ensures
high conversion rates and minimal byproducts.
Bioenzyme Method: Using biological enzymes as catalysts, acrylonitrile undergoes hydration to form AM. This method achieves ultra-high purity (99.99%) and is ideal for
producing ultra-high-molecular-weight PAM.
Depending on the desired PAM type (anionic, cationic, or non-ionic), different polymerization techniques are employed:
Pre-alkali Polymerization & Hydrolysis:
AM solution is mixed with alkali (e.g., sodium hydroxide) and a multi-component initiator system (e.g., persulfate, azo compounds).
The mixture undergoes polymerization under nitrogen protection, followed by hydrolysis to introduce carboxyl groups.
The product is then dried, crushed, and sieved into powder.
Redox-Initiated Copolymerization:
AM is copolymerized with cationic monomers (e.g., DMC) using redox initiators (e.g., ammonium persulfate/sodium bisulfite).
Parameters like pH (6.0), temperature (25°C), and monomer concentration (45%) are optimized for high viscosity.
C. Non-Ionic PAM Production
Low-Temperature Polymerization:
AM is polymerized in a weakly acidic buffer (pH 6.5) with anti-hydrolysis agents (e.g., N,N-dimethylacrylamide).
The reaction is initiated at 0–2°C to minimize hydrolysis, ensuring ultra-low hydrolysis degrees (<1%).
After polymerization, the PAM gel undergoes:
Cutting & Granulation: The gel is sliced into small particles for drying.
Drying & Milling: The granules are dried (60°C for 12 hours) and ground into fine powder.
Quality Control: The final product is tested for molecular weight, residual monomer, and solubility.
For high-performance applications, modified PAM types are produced:
Low-Molecular-Weight PAM: Chain transfer agents (e.g., isopropanol) are used to control molecular weight (10,000–120,000)
Heat- & Salt-Resistant PAM: Monomers like AMPS are incorporated to enhance stability in harsh conditions.
Our advanced PAM production processes ensure high-quality, customizable polymers for diverse industrial needs. For more details on our products, please contact our
technical team.
Henan Wanzhong Water Treatment Co.,Ltd
WhatsApp:+8615138699676 Tel/WeChat: +8618236921808
E-mail：Vanzon@vanzonwater.com
