Coagulation & Flocculation
Key Differences – Coagulation & Flocculation (in Water Treatment)
Water treatment is an important aspect which involves many different steps. Since water treatment is a very sensitive and important process it requires the presence of both physical and chemical processes. Restoration of water quality is assured during water treatment. Coagulation and flocculation steps are important aspects in the context of water treatment since it allows the separation of suspended particles present in water effectively. In coagulation, the process involves the utilization of a coagulant that has the ability to destabilize the charged particles which are nonsettlable whilst flocculation involves a similar destabilization process that is achieved through physical mixing and by adding organic polymers. The key difference between coagulation and flocculation in water treatment is that the coagulation is a chemical process while flocculation is a physical process.
Coagulation vs Flocculation in Water Treatment
Coagulation is an important step in water treatment and it involves in the addition of a coagulant to enhance the clotting of suspended particles in water.
Flocculation is another important step in water treatment and it involves in the formation of visible flocs by mechanical or physical mixing.
Process Type
Coagulation is a chemical process.
Flocculation is a physical process.
Added Compounds
Coagulants such as inorganic salts of aluminum or iron that neutralize the suspended particles are added during coagulation.
Flocculant such as an organic polymer that involves in bridging and strengthening the flocs is added. It also increase the weight of the flocs and increases the rate of settling.
Physical Mixing
Coagulation does not involve physical mixing process.
Flocculation involves physical mixing.
Coagulation vs Flocculation in Water Treatment
Treatment of water is a very sensitive and important process. It requires the presence of both physical and chemical processes. Coagulation and flocculation steps are important aspects in the context of drinking and wastewater treatment since it allows the separation of suspended particles present in water effectively. Coagulation is a chemical process and flocculation is a physical process, In coagulation, the process involves the utilization of a coagulant that has the ability to destabilize the charged particles which are not settleable whilst flocculation involves a similar destabilization process that is achieved through physical mixing and by adding organic polymers. This is the difference between coagulation and flocculation.
What are the Similarities Between Coagulation and Flocculation in Water Treatment?
Coagulation and flocculation are two main and important steps in drinking and wastewater treatment.
Both processes involve the union of different suspended particles together.
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