Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)
Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), CAS 25189-55-3, is a thermosensitive polymer with a molecular weight (Mw) between 20,000 and 40,000. Its primary characteristic is its ability to undergo a reversible phase transition in aqueous solutions. Above approximately 32°C, the polymer transitions from a soluble to an insoluble state, enabling its use in hydrogel formation and other advanced material applications. PNIPAM is a key component in smart materials and responsive systems.
- IUPAC
- NIPAM polymer,PNIPAM,Polyacrylamide,polyNIPAM
- Synonyms
- PNIPAMPolyacrylamide (PAM)NIPAM polymerpolyNIPAM

Thermosensitive Hydrogel Formation
Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) is employed to create hydrogels that exhibit a distinct phase transition in response to temperature changes. Upon heating above its lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of around 32°C, the polymer network becomes hydrophobic, leading to deswelling or gelation.
Responsive Biomaterials
The temperature-dependent solubility of PNIPAM makes it valuable for developing smart biomaterials. These materials can be engineered for controlled drug delivery systems, tissue engineering scaffolds, and biosensors that respond to physiological temperature fluctuations.
Smart Polymer Applications
PNIPAM serves as a foundational polymer for numerous 'smart' material applications. Its reversible change in aqueous solubility above 32°C allows for the design of tunable membranes, actuators, and stimuli-responsive surfaces.
| Linear formula | (C6H11NO)n |
|---|---|
| Application | Thermosensitive polymer; can be used to form a hydrogel. Aqueous polymer solution undergoes a phase transition from a soluble to an insoluble state when the temperature is raised to ca. 32 °C.1,2 |
| Melting point | 96 °C |
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Gloves, type N95 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Mol Wt | Mw 20,000-40,000 |
|---|
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) used for?
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Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) is primarily used as a thermosensitive polymer for forming hydrogels and in the development of responsive biomaterials. It undergoes a phase transition in water, becoming insoluble above approximately 32°C.
What is the CAS number and formula for Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)?
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The CAS number for Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) is 25189-55-3. Its linear formula is (C₆H₁₁NO)n.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) with a specified molecular weight (Mw) of 20,000-40,000. This is generally considered a research or technical grade material, and TSS does not represent it as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the safety and handling precautions for PNIPAM?
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When handling Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), it is essential to use appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves. A type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter is recommended. The material has a WGK Germany rating of 1.
How is Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) packed and shipped?
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Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) is carefully packed to ensure its integrity during transit. As a specialist global supplier and exporter, Tech Serve Solutions adheres to all necessary regulations for shipping fine chemicals worldwide.
How can I request a sample or quote for Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)?
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To request a sample or a quote for Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), please contact our sales team through the website or via direct inquiry. Provide the CAS number (25189-55-3) and your specific requirements.
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