Polyacrylic Acid
PAA
- CAS
- 9003-01-4
- EC
- 204-927-3
- Sectors
- Water & Wastewater Treatment, Agriculture, Pharma & Healthcare
Polyacrylic Acid (CAS 9003-01-4) is a water-soluble homopolymer of acrylic acid supplied as a white powder that forms clear, viscous solutions or gels on neutralization, and it acts as an anionic polyelectrolyte for thickening and dispersing in water treatment, agriculture and healthcare formulations. This anionic polyelectrolyte expands in aqueous media due to electrostatic repulsion, providing thickening and dispersing functions in formulations, as detailed in industry compound summaries for industrial-grade variants.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | (C3H4O2)x |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 102.132 g/mol |
| Appearance | white powder |
| Form | Powder |
| Color | White |
| Melting point | 149 °C |
| Boiling point | 116 °C |
| Density | 1.44 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | Soluble in water. |
| Flash point | 100 °C |
| pH | 2.5 -3.0 (1% water solution) |
| HS code | 39069090 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Polyacrylic Acid
Applications
Deployed in household cleaners as viscosity modifiers; in water treatment for flocculant enhancement; in agriculture as hydrogel soil amendments; in pharma gels for topical delivery; and in battery electrolytes for ion conductivity improvement in energy storage systems.
Safety & Risks
Acidic forms corrosive to eyes and skin; neutralized versions milder but dust inhalation may cause pulmonary irritation. Low biodegradability raises environmental concerns per EFSA; neutralize spills promptly and use enclosed transfer systems with chemical-resistant gloves to comply with GHS classifications.
Packaging
Shipped in 200 kg intermediate bulk containers with acid-proof valves for bulk handling. Store horizontally in corrosion-protected racking, monitored for leaks in dedicated polymer areas.