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Key Points Discussed[00:02:00] Introduction Ty introduces Dr. Kyla Wood as “the Wizard of Flocculent,” and she kicks off her technical presentation.
[00:04:00] Origins and Safety of PAM Dr. Wood explains how polyacrylamides (PAMs) originated in mining and have been adapted for stormwater.
“What we really focus on is making sure we’re using high-quality products that have been toxicity tested” – Dr. Kyla Wood
[00:06:00] Why Use Flocculants? Discussing why traditional BMPs often fall short in treating fine particles like silts and clays.
“Even when we do everything right, we can have a pretty high turbidity.” – Dr. Kyla Wood
[00:10:00] What Is Polyacrylamide (PAM)? A deep dive into PAM’s uses, safety profile, and why anionic forms are preferred in passive treatment systems.
[00:14:00] How PAM Works: The Science of Flocculation Explains the polymer chain reaction and visual examples of clear vs. untreated water.
“It kind of looks like a grain of sand, when it gets wet, it'll unwind.” – Dr. Kyla Wood
[00:17:00] Ensuring Safe Use: Product Selection and Certification Key considerations: anionic charge, toxicity testing, and NSF certification.
[00:19:00] Fundamentals for Effective Use Formulation, dosage, mixing time, and flock capture techniques.
“One polymer does not work on all soil and water.” – Dr. Kyla Wood
[00:27:00] Polymer-Enhanced BMPs Use of flocculants in erosion control, sediment basins, and drain treatments.
[00:43:00] Enhanced Vegetation & Hydro Seeding The role of PAM in plant growth and hydro seeding applications.
[00:45:00] Lesser-Known Uses: Demucking & Dust Control Unique and practical applications of PAM for sediment removal and reducing dust.
“PAM offers a really great non-salt option.” – Dr. Kyla Wood
[00:51:00] Final Thoughts Ty and Kyla wrap up the session with appreciation and a nod to upcoming experiments.
“Use us as a resource if you have any questions, that’s what we’re here for.” – Dr. Kyla Wood
In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, Ty hosts Dr. Kyla Wood, Chief Science Officer at Applied Polymer Systems, for a technical deep dive into flocculants, specifically anionic polyacrylamide (PAM), and their role in stormwater management and erosion control. Dr. Wood explains how PAM works at the molecular level to bind fine particles like clay and metal, improving water clarity and enhancing traditional BMPs. She shares practical guidance on formulation, dosage, mixing, and flock capture, as well as real-world examples of polymer-enhanced BMPs, erosion control techniques, and innovative uses like demucking and dust suppression. The episode emphasizes environmental safety, regulatory compliance, and the importance of proper product selection and application.
The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future.
Connect with Dr. Kyla Wood, PhD:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyla-iwinski-wood-phd-958890228/
Website: https://www.apsfloc.com/
Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:
Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/
Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57
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