The reaction rates of Cr(III) oligomers with partially hydrolyzed (PAAm) polyacrylamide were measured. The oligomers were prepared in relatively pure form using liquid chromatography, allowed to react with polymer, quenched, and then separated using equilibrium dialysis. In the pH range of 4-5, Cr(III) concentrations in the range of 8-30 ppm and polymer concentrations in the range of 4000-20,000 ppm, reaction rates increased with increasing oligomer size, concentration, and pH. Gelation rates determined using rheological measurements were found to follow closely the Cr(III) reaction rates.