Used primarily in the production of polyacrylamide polymers, which serve as flocculants in water treatment processes to remove suspended solids. Widely applied in enhanced oil recovery to improve the flow of water through oil reservoirs. Employed in the manufacturing of grouting agents for civil engineering and soil stabilization. Also used in laboratories for gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) to separate proteins based on molecular weight. Found in some adhesives, papermaking chemicals, and cosmetics as a thickening agent. Industrial handling requires caution due to neurotoxic and potential carcinogenic properties.