Polyacrylamide is a white, odorless powder that is soluble in water. Its chemical structure consists of repeating units of acrylamide, which can form either linear or cross-linked chains depending on the synthesis method used. This versatility allows polyacrylamide to be tailored for specific applications by modifying its molecular weight and degree of cross-linking. The properties of PAM, such as high viscosity in solution, effective flocculation, and excellent stabilizing capabilities, are attributed to its polymeric nature.