Anionic vs Cationic PAM: Fast Visual Test

In water treatment and industrial processes, many users can’t tell whether their polyacrylamide (PAM) is anionic or cationic.

But don’t worry — with these easy tips, you can quickly and accurately identify it. This helps avoid poor treatment results or equipment damage caused by using the wrong type.

 

✅ Simple Mixing Test (Most Reliable)

In a lab test, we prepared 1.5‰ solutions of anionic and cationic PAM. At first, they look the same — clear and sticky. But here’s the trick:

👉 Mix a known cationic PAM solution with an unknown sample, If white flocs appear quickly, it means the unknown sample is anionic — and vice versa.

This test is easy and works well. You only need one known PAM to compare.

 

✅ Other Useful Tips

Besides the mixing method, try these:

• Check the product standard on the label:
  • Anionic PAM: GB/T 17514-2017
  • Cationic PAM: GB/T 31246-2014
• Compare dissolution time:
  • Anionic: dissolves in 30–40 min at room temp
  • Cationic: takes 40–60+ min
• Check viscosity:
  • At the same concentration and molecular weight, anionic PAM is thicker
• Look at usage scenarios:
  • Cationic PAM is used in:
    • Sludge dewatering
    • Municipal and domestic wastewater
    • Industrial wastewater
    • Equipment like filter presses, screw presses
  • Anionic PAM is used in:
    • Pretreatment stages
    • Building sites, drilling fluids, tunneling
    • Coatings, incense making, wall putty
    • Works as dispersant, thickener, binder

 

⚠️ Important: Don’t Use Both Types Together

Never mix anionic and cationic PAM in the same treatment stage. They will react, causing floc breakup or system failure.

✅ Instead, use anionic first, and cationic later (like during dewatering). This is safer and more efficient.

 

💡 Final Tip

With these practical tricks, whether you’re a buyer, technician, or plant operator, you can confidently choose the right PAM type for your process. Better choice = Better results + Lower cost 💧