Poly Anionic Cellulose (PAC) is a chemically modified derivative of cellulose, a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in plant cell walls. It is produced by substituting hydroxyl groups in the cellulose structure with carboxymethyl groups, resulting in a water-soluble, anionic polymer. This modification imparts unique properties to PAC, making it highly valuable across multiple industrial and commercial applications. As a water-soluble polymer, PAC dissolves readily in aqueous environments, forming viscous solutions that exhibit excellent stability under varying conditions of temperature, pH, and salinity. Its anionic character, due to the negatively charged carboxymethyl groups, allows it to interact with positively charged ions or particles, enhancing its utility in processes requiring dispersion, thickening, or fluid control.

Beyond oilfield applications, PAC finds extensive use in the food industry as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It is often incorporated into products like sauces, ice creams, and baked goods to improve texture and shelf life. Its water-binding capacity helps retain moisture, while its solubility ensures a smooth consistency without clumping. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes certain grades of PAC as safe for use in food under specific conditions, a detail often discussed in regulatory and food science literature. Similarly, in pharmaceuticals, PAC is employed as a binder or disintegrant in tablet formulations and as a component in controlled-release drug systems, leveraging its biocompatibility and solubility.

In the cosmetics sector, PAC appears in products like shampoos, lotions, and toothpaste, where it enhances viscosity and provides a smooth texture. Its ability to form stable gels and resist microbial degradation makes it a preferred choice in formulations requiring long-term stability. Environmental applications also benefit from PAC, such as in wastewater treatment, where it aids in flocculation by binding suspended particles into larger aggregates that can be easily filtered out.

The production of PAC typically involves reacting cellulose with chloroacetic acid under alkaline conditions, a process detailed in chemical engineering texts and patents. The degree of substitution (DS)—the average number of carboxymethyl groups per glucose unit—determines its solubility and performance characteristics. High-DS PAC, for instance, is more water-soluble and suited for demanding applications like deep-well drilling, while lower-DS variants might be used in less stringent contexts.