Guidelines for the Use of Polyacrylamide: Ensuring Efficient and Safe Sewage Treatment

In the critical realm of sewage treatment, polyacrylamide stands as a vital flocculant whose usage profoundly impacts the efficacy and quality of the treatment process. To harness its full potential while maintaining operational safety, it is imperative to adhere to specific guidelines for the use of polyacrylamide.

Direct Addition Avoidance

A crucial aspect to consider is that granular polyacrylamide flocculants should never be added directly to sewage. This practice can hinder the uniform dispersion of the flocculant, ultimately compromising its flocculation efficiency. Instead, it is essential to dissolve the polyacrylamide in water, creating a homogeneous polymer solution, which is then used to treat the sewage.

Selection of Water Quality

The quality of water used for dissolving polyacrylamide is paramount. Clean water, such as tap water, is ideal. Normal temperatures are suitable for dissolution, though it's essential to be mindful of water temperature's influence on the dissolution rate. Water temperatures below 5°C significantly slow down the dissolution process, while temperatures exceeding 40°C accelerate polymer degradation, thereby diminishing its effectiveness. Maintaining water temperatures within an appropriate range is thus crucial.

Water Chemistry Considerations

Moreover, the chemical properties of water are equally significant. Strong acids, bases, and high-salinity water are not suitable for preparing polymer solutions. These conditions can trigger degradation or precipitation of the polymer, jeopardizing its stability and performance. Therefore, when selecting water for dissolution, it is imperative to ensure it meets the required specifications.

By adhering to these guidelines, not only can polyacrylamide achieve its maximum flocculation potential, but the overall safety of the sewage treatment process is also ensured.