FAQs
APS FAQs – Polymers, Flocculants & Stormwater Testing
A comprehensive resource for engineers, contractors, inspectors, and regulators on APS polymers, flocculants, APAM, testing, application, and environmental safety.
General Company and Approach
- What does Applied Polymer Systems (APS) do?
APS develops and supports polymer-based solutions for erosion and sediment control during construction. - What makes APS different from other erosion control suppliers?
APS focuses on testing, technical support, and correct polymer selection rather than one-size-fits-all products.
🔗 APS technical support approach | Polymer performance testing - Who typically works with APS?
APS works with engineers, contractors, inspectors, and regulators involved in construction-phase stormwater compliance.
🔗 Industries served
Flocculants & Polymers
- What are flocculants?
Flocculants help fine sediment particles bind together so they can settle and be captured within BMPs (Best Management Practices). - Why are flocculants used in construction stormwater management?
They address fine silts and clays that traditional sediment controls struggle to capture. - Do flocculants replace erosion and sediment controls?
No. Flocculants enhance the performance of BMPs, not replace them. They work best in combination with properly designed and maintained basins, ditches, and inlet protection. - What is APAM?
APAM stands for Anionic Polyacrylamide, a polymer flocculant commonly used in construction stormwater applications. - Is all APAM the same?
No. Molecular weight and charge density vary, affecting how the polymer interacts with different soils.
🔗 Polymer selection and matching
Why Anionic PAM Is Important
- Why does the charge of a flocculant matter?
Polymer charge affects how it interacts with sediments and aquatic life. - Why is anionic PAM preferred for stormwater applications?
Anionic PAM carries a negative charge that does not readily bind to fish gills or aquatic organisms when used correctly. - Why are cationic polymers not used in construction stormwater?
Cationic polymers carry a positive charge and can bind strongly to fish gills, making them unsafe for stormwater applications.
🔗 Proper polymer selection guidance - How does APAM reduce risk to aquatic life?
When properly tested and applied, APAM binds fine sediment particles together so they settle and can be captured within BMPs, reducing turbidity and minimizing interaction with aquatic organisms downstream.
Testing & Evaluation
- Does APS provide soil testing?
Yes. APS offers laboratory and field performance testing to evaluate soil response to polymers.
🔗 APS performance testing services - What is tailgate testing?
Tailgate testing allows soils and polymers to be evaluated directly in the field using APS test kits.
🔗 Field testing kits and instructions - Why is testing critical before using polymers?
Testing ensures the correct polymer is selected, improves performance, and supports defensible compliance.
🔗 Why testing matters
Field Application & Support
- Does APS provide application guidance?
Yes. APS supports dosage, placement, and integration with BMPs during construction.
🔗 APS technical support services - Are training and instructions available?
APS provides written instructions and instructional videos for proper field use.
🔗 Application instructions | Training videos - Can polymers be adjusted as site conditions change?
Yes. APS assists with re-evaluation when soils, flows, or construction phases change.
🔗 Ongoing project support
Compliance & Environmental Considerations
- Are APS polymers used to support regulatory compliance?
Yes. They are commonly used as part of an overall erosion and sediment control strategy. - How do polymers help protect downstream waters?
By binding fine sediment and allowing it to be captured within BMPs, reducing turbidity.
🔗 Sediment control solutions
Getting Started
- How do I know if polymers are right for my site?
APS recommends starting with soil testing and a discussion of site conditions.
🔗 Start polymer testing - How early should APS be involved in a project?
Early involvement helps ensure correct polymer selection and proper implementation.
🔗 Contact APS