Poly(acrylic acid), 25% Solution in Water (MW ~50,000)
Water-soluble anionic polymer for thickening, dispersion stabilization, and binding in aqueous formulations
Quick Specifications
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Chemical type: Poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)
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Concentration: 25% polymer solution in water
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Approximate molecular weight: ~50,000 g/mol
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Ionic character: Anionic
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Functional groups: Carboxylic acid (–COOH)
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Form supplied: Aqueous solution
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Typical performance: Thickening, dispersion stabilization, binding
Common Applications
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Water treatment formulations: Used as a dispersant and stabilizer in aqueous systems to help maintain suspension stability and reduce fouling.
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Adhesives and sealants: Provides viscosity control and contributes to tack and binding performance in water-based adhesive systems.
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Personal care formulations: Used in gels and creams for film-forming behavior and moisture-retention properties in research and formulation development.
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Industrial formulations: Evaluated as a rheology modifier and dispersant in coatings, cleaners, and other water-based products.
Why Researchers and Formulators Use It
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Ready-to-use format: Supplied as a 25% aqueous solution for convenient incorporation into water-based systems.
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pH-responsive behavior: Carboxylic acid groups support formulation-dependent rheology and interaction with water.
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Formulation versatility: Suitable for applications requiring thickening, dispersion support, film formation, or binding performance.
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Useful for development work: Medium molecular weight grade for evaluating performance in research, screening, and process optimization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is poly(acrylic acid) commonly used for?
Poly(acrylic acid) is widely used as a thickener, dispersant, and binding polymer in aqueous formulations. It is commonly evaluated in water treatment, adhesives, coatings, personal care, and other water-based systems where viscosity control or suspension stabilization is important.
Is this product supplied as a solution or as a solid polymer?
This product is supplied as a 25% solution in water, allowing direct use in compatible aqueous formulations without a separate dissolution step.
What does the molecular weight (~50,000) affect?
Molecular weight can influence viscosity, thickening efficiency, film formation, and formulation behavior. A medium molecular weight grade such as ~50,000 is often useful where balanced rheology and dispersant performance are desired.
Is poly(acrylic acid) pH responsive?
Yes. The carboxylic acid groups along the polymer backbone can ionize depending on pH, which may affect polymer expansion, viscosity, and interaction with other formulation components.
How should this product be stored?
Store tightly sealed at room temperature and help prevent contamination during handling. Refer to the product label and supporting documentation for full storage and handling guidance.
Formulation Notes
- Can be evaluated in water-based systems requiring rheology modification, dispersion support, or binding performance.
- pH and degree of ionization can influence viscosity and overall formulation behavior.
- Performance should be confirmed in the end-use system, particularly where salts, surfactants, or other polymers are present.
Need help selecting the right poly(acrylic acid) grade?
Contact the Polysciences technical team for guidance on molecular weight selection, formulation fit, and application requirements.
