Flocculation is one of the first stages of water treatment.

It is a chemical and physical process in which small particles are aggregated, forming flocs that carry the dirt with them. This happens when coagulating substances are added to the water.

In Brazil, the most widely used coagulant is Aluminum Sulfate, but there are several other products that can be added to water to carry out flocculation efficiently.

In today's article, we will introduce them and tell you a little more about each one. Read on!

Aluminum Sulfate

Aluminum Sulfate is a salt obtained from the reaction between sulfuric acid and aluminum hydroxide. It has low toxicity, but in powder form it can irritate the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and the eyes.

On contact with the skin, it can cause dryness and mild dermatitis, so even though it is not a very toxic chemical, it is extremely important to handle it only with the recommended safety equipment.

Ferric Chloride

Ferric Chloride is a chemical compound produced on an industrial scale.

When dissolved in water, it turns brown and becomes acidic and extremely corrosive, so it should not be handled without the proper safety equipment.

When used as a coagulant, it destabilizes the particles of impurities and solids found in water and causes them to clump together, adhering to the flocs, for cleaning rivers, lakes, reservoirs and other bodies of water.

It is rarely found in its natural state, which is gaseous, and is sold only in liquid form.

Polyaluminum Chloride

Polyaluminum Chloride is an inorganic, cationic polymer of low molecular weight. It is a viscous liquid, brown to light yellow in color. It is an extremely irritating and corrosive compound, and it is extremely harmful if swallowed.

When handling it, it is important to wear the necessary safety equipment, such as safety goggles, an apron, acid-resistant clothing, boots, gloves and a mask with a gas filter. Do not breathe the vapor the product gives off!

Ferrous Sulfate

Ferrous Sulfate is an inorganic coagulant based on iron salts, used mainly to treat turbid and alkaline water. In some cases, these iron salts have advantages over aluminum salts, because they form heavier flocs and work over wider pH ranges, such as 4.0 to 11.0.

It is not a toxic product, but the use of protective equipment is still recommended.

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