Higher Efficiency in Particle Flocculation by Using Combinations of Oppositely Charged Polyelectrolytes

Abstract

The separation of finely dispersed particles by flocculation is a well‐known and widely used process. The flocculation mechanism depends on the properties of polymers, especially the type of charge (negative, positive, or non‐ionic), the charge density of polyelectrolytes and the molecular weight. The discussion is focused on the advantages of a dual system (polycation/followed by polyanion) for the flocculation of washing water from the gravel industry.