From Wikipedia,
the free encyclopedia.
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 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.
The process is widely employed
in the processing of
drinking water as well as
sewage and other waste
streams.
Sodium silicate is a common
floculating agent.
Antonym
deflocculation
