flocculáció

Flocculation is a process where colloidal particles suspended in a liquid aggregate to form larger particles called flocs. This aggregation is typically induced by the addition of a flocculating agent, often referred to as a flocculant. These agents can be chemical substances, such as salts or polymers, or physical methods like agitation. The primary goal of flocculation is to destabilize the suspension, allowing the small, dispersed particles to clump together. In natural systems, this can occur due to changes in pH, temperature, or the presence of dissolved ions. In industrial and environmental applications, flocculation is a crucial step in water and wastewater treatment, as well as in mining and paper manufacturing. By forming larger, heavier flocs, the particles become easier to separate from the liquid through sedimentation, filtration, or flotation. This removal of suspended solids is essential for clarifying liquids and recovering valuable materials. The effectiveness of flocculation depends on factors like the type and concentration of flocculant, the characteristics of the suspended particles, and the mixing conditions.