Polyelectrolytes

Polyelectrolytes have many applications, mostly related to modifying flow and stability properties of aqueous solutions and gels. For instance, they can be used to either stabilize colloidal suspensions, or to initiate flocculation (precipitation). They are thus often used as thickeners, emulsifiers, conditioners, flocculants, and even drag reducers. Furtheremore they are added to many foods and to concrete mixtures. Some of the polyelectrolytes that appear on food labels are pectin, carrageenan, alginates, polyvinylpyrrolidone and carboxymethyl cellulose.