N-Methylol Acrylamide – Crosslinking Monomer for Durable Polymers and Water Treatment Applications

N-Methylol Acrylamide (NMA) is a high-functionality acrylamide derivative widely used in the production of polymers and specialty resins for coatings, adhesives, and sealants. With its strong crosslinking ability and water compatibility, NMA plays a key role in enhancing the strength, flexibility, and durability of industrial polymer systems.

As a member of the acrylamide family, N-Methylol Acrylamide features an amide group attached to a vinyl group, making it highly reactive in free-radical polymerization. What sets NMA apart is its methylol (-CH2OH) functional group, which introduces additional reactive sites for thermal and chemical crosslinking, significantly improving the performance of finished materials.

NMA is commonly used in the synthesis of polyacrylamide-based polymers that are essential in water treatment, where they act as flocculants and coagulant aids to clarify municipal and industrial wastewater. These polymers help bind suspended particles and improve filtration, contributing to more efficient and sustainable water management systems.

In addition to water treatment, N-Methylol Acrylamide is also utilized in textiles, paper manufacturing, nonwoven fabrics, and wood adhesives, where its crosslinking capability enhances wash durability, moisture resistance, and mechanical strength. It is especially effective in formulations requiring wet-strength retention and heat resistance, making it a valuable additive in high-performance and specialty chemical applications.

With its high reactivity and multifunctional properties, N-Methylol Acrylamide is a critical monomer in the development of durable, water-compatible polymers used across a wide range of industrial, environmental, and consumer-facing applications.