Types of Polyacrylamide (PAM): Classification and Applications

Cationic Polyacrylamide (CPAM):
This type contains active functional groups that provide strong adsorption properties, making it highly effective in sludge dewatering and wastewater treatment—particularly for effluents from food processing, municipal sewage, and textile plants.

Anionic Polyacrylamide (APAM):
APAM is primarily employed for sedimentation and clarification processes in industrial wastewater treatment, such as in steel plants, metallurgy, and sludge handling. Its strong bridging and flocculation capabilities make it suitable for suspended solids removal and drinking Water Purification.

Nonionic Polyacrylamide (NPAM):
NPAM offers high water solubility and good tolerance to electrolytes. It is widely used in mineral processing, textile wastewater treatment, and chemical wastewater management.