Polyacrylamide
Polyacrylamide
Polyacrylamide (pronunciation: pol-ee-ak-ruh-lahyd) is a synthetic, high molecular weight polymer of Acrylamide. It is commonly used in a variety of industrial and scientific applications, including as a flocculant in wastewater treatment, in gel electrophoresis, and as a soil conditioner.
Etymology
The term "Polyacrylamide" is derived from the words "polymer" and "acrylamide". "Polymer" comes from the Greek words "poly" meaning "many", and "meros" meaning "part". "Acrylamide" is a compound word formed from "acrylic" and "amide". "Acrylic" is derived from the Latin word "acryl" meaning "sharp", and "amide" is derived from the French word "amide", which is a type of organic compound.
Related Terms
Usage
Polyacrylamide is a versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications. In wastewater treatment, it acts as a flocculant, helping to clarify the water by causing suspended particles to aggregate and settle out of the water. In gel electrophoresis, a technique used in molecular biology to separate DNA, RNA, and proteins, polyacrylamide gels provide a medium through which these molecules can move. As a soil conditioner, polyacrylamide can help improve the structure of the soil and increase its ability to retain water and nutrients.
Health and Safety
Exposure to polyacrylamide can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. In its powdered form, it can be harmful if inhaled, and it can be harmful or fatal if swallowed. Therefore, appropriate safety measures should be taken when handling this substance.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Polyacrylamide
- Wikipedia's article - Polyacrylamide
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