coagulantactive

Coagulant activity refers to the ability of a substance to promote coagulation, the process by which small particles or dissolved components are destabilized and form a solid or semi-solid mass. In biological contexts, coagulation describes the cascade of enzymatic reactions that lead to blood clot formation. Substances with coagulant activity in this sense can act as cofactors, initiators, or catalysts that accelerate clot formation. In non-biological contexts, the term is used to describe chemicals that destabilize colloids or particles in suspension, enabling aggregation and settling.

In water and wastewater treatment, coagulants neutralize the negative surface charge of suspended particles, allowing them to come together into larger flocs that can be removed by settling or filtration. Common coagulants include aluminum salts (such as alum), ferric salts, and various synthetic polymers known as coagulant aids. The observed coagulant activity depends on factors such as pH, temperature, dosages, and the characteristics of the contaminants. Process efficiency is typically assessed with jar tests and turbidity measurements, with optimal dose reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L) and removal efficiency expressed as a percentage.

Industrially, coagulants are used in food processing (for example, certain enzymes or acids that cause milk proteins to coagulate) and in protein recovery from liquids. Environmental and safety considerations focus on residual coagulants and sludge production. Ongoing work seeks coagulant-active materials that deliver high activity at lower dosages with minimal byproducts. See also coagulation, flocculation, jar test, zeta potential.