Coagulation is the destabilization of these colloids by neutralizing the
forces that keep them apart.
The demo below shows the difference in floc formation between coagulation and flocculation:
Coagulation
Flocculation
FAQ
Q. Are coagulants and flocculants the same thing? A. Although the terminology is frequently used interchangeably, they are significantly different. There are a variety of inorganic, organic and blends of these chemistries used as coagulants. Flocculants are typically high molecular weight oil / latex based chemistry with varying charges on the (+) and (-) spectrum or inbetween (nonionic). Coagulants are typically on the acidic side and are mostly highly charged, readily soluble in water, cationics. Call us to discuss interest in any coagulants or flocculants.
Q. What pH does the water have to be to optimize the effectiveness of coagulants? A. Organic Coagulants are very effective over a broad pH range from 2-10. Inorganic Coagulants work well also at varying pH ranges but are themselves usually acidic—with the exception of Sodium Aluminate. Inorganics typically will suppress the pH and organics usually have little effect on pH.
Q. What dosage ranges are typical coagulants fed at. A. Below are common dosages of different coagulants:
*Inorganic : 50 – 200 PPM. Sometimes used 2000 – 5000 PPM depending on the demand.
*Organic Coagulants: 1 – 50 PPM Typically but will also vary depending on the applictaton.
Q. Will any coagulant or flocculant work in my application? A. Absolutely not. You must usually perform bench studies (jar testing) to determine the best chemistry for the application. Call us to help you evaluate your chemical needs.