Flocculation
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Flocculation refers to a process where a solute comes out of solution in the form of floc or “flakes.” The term is also used to refer to the process by which fine particulates are caused to clump together into floc. The floc may then float to the top of the liquid, settle to the bottom of the liquid, or can be readily filtered from the liquid.
In geology, Flocculation is a condition in which clays, polymers or other small charged particles become attached and form a fragile structure, a floc. In dispersed clay slurries, flocculation occurs after mechanical agitation ceases and the dispersed clay platelets spontaneously form flocs because of attractions between negative face charges and positive edge charges.
In biology the process is used to refer to the asexual aggregation of microorganisms, most commonly brewing yeast at the end of a brew.
The process is widely employed in the processing of drinking water as well as sewage and other waste streams.
Sodium silicate is a common flocculating agent.
Antonym
deflocculation
See also
- aggregation
- clay-water interaction
- deflocculant
- flocculant
- saltwater flow
- spud mud
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