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Polyacrylic Acid

Product Information

CAS Number

4/01/9003

Safety Data Sheets Download

Other Names

2-Propenoic acid, homopolymer
Acrylic acid, polymers
Carboxymethylene polymer

Polyacrylic Acid

About Polyacrylic Acid

Polyacrylic Acid (PAA) is a synthetic polymer with the repeating unit formula (C₃H₄O₂)ₙ. It is available as a white powder, aqueous solution, or as cross-linked forms with varying molecular weights. PAA is produced through the polymerization of acrylic acid using free radical initiators. The polymer is highly water-soluble and exhibits strong water-absorbing properties, making it valuable as a superabsorbent, thickener, and dispersant across multiple industries.

Polyacrylic Acid Uses

Water Treatment

Polyacrylic acid is extensively used as a scale and corrosion inhibitor in industrial water treatment systems including cooling towers, boilers, and desalination plants. It prevents calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, and other mineral scale formation on heat exchanger surfaces and equipment. PAA disperses suspended solids, prevents fouling, and extends equipment life. It is also used in municipal water treatment for controlling scale in distribution systems.

Detergents and Cleaning Products

In detergent formulations, PAA serves as a dispersant and anti-redeposition agent, preventing dirt and soil from reattaching to fabric during washing. It acts as a builder that enhances cleaning efficiency by sequestering hardness ions in water. PAA is used in laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and industrial cleaners to improve performance and prevent scale buildup in washing machines.

Personal Care and Industrial Applications

Personal care products use PAA as a thickener and stabilizer in lotions, creams, gels, and hair care formulations. In its cross-linked superabsorbent form, it is the key component in disposable diapers and hygiene products, absorbing large quantities of liquid. Industrial applications include use in paper manufacturing as a retention aid, in textile processing as a thickener for printing pastes, in agriculture as a soil conditioner and water retention agent, and in paints and coatings as a rheology modifier.

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