Several specific chemicals are particularly effective in chemical treatment processes, especially for water and wastewater treatment. Their effectiveness depends on the targeted contaminant and the process stage. Here are some key chemicals and their roles:
Coagulants for Particle Removal
- Ferric Chloride: A powerful coagulant that binds fine particles into larger flocs, facilitating their removal by sedimentation or filtration. It is highly effective in removing phosphates and suspended solids in wastewater treatment.
- Ferric Sulphate: Similar to ferric chloride, it acts as a coagulant, especially useful in removing colloidal particles and treating industrial wastewater.
- Poly Aluminium Chloride (PAC): Among the most efficient coagulants, PAC helps remove suspended solids and organic materials by forming larger flocs. It works over a wide pH range, making it versatile for various water conditions.
Corrosion Inhibitors
- Phosphoric Acid: Used to prevent corrosion in metal pipes and tanks by forming a protective phosphate layer, extending infrastructure lifespan in corrosive water systems.
Oxidizing Agents
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Used in wastewater treatment to reduce biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD), improving water quality by oxidizing organic pollutants.
Disinfectants
- Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate: Releases chlorine and provides prolonged bactericidal effects, maintaining chlorine availability longer than traditional hypochlorites. It is effective against bacteria even in the presence of organic matter.
- Chlorine Dioxide and Chloramine-T: Alternative chlorine-releasing compounds that provide sustained disinfection effectiveness.
- Superoxidized Water: Produced by electrolyzing saline, it contains hypochlorous acid and chlorine, which are potent antimicrobial agents with minimal environmental impact.
Summary Table of Effective Chemicals and Their Roles
| Chemical | Role | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Ferric Chloride | Coagulant | Removes phosphates, suspended solids; forms flocs |
| Ferric Sulphate | Coagulant | Removes colloidal particles, industrial wastewater |
| Poly Aluminium Chloride | Coagulant | Efficient floc formation over a wide pH range |
| Phosphoric Acid | Corrosion Inhibitor | Prevents pipe corrosion by forming protective layers |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Oxidizing Agent | Reduces BOD and COD, oxidizes organic contaminants |
| Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate | Disinfectant | Long-lasting bactericidal effect, chlorine-releasing |
| Chlorine Dioxide, Chloramine-T | Disinfectants | Sustained antimicrobial action |
| Superoxidized Water | Disinfectant | Environmentally friendly, effective antimicrobial agent |
These chemicals are chosen based on the specific treatment goals such as solid removal, corrosion control, oxidation of pollutants, or disinfection. Their widespread use and proven effectiveness make them foundational in water and wastewater chemical treatment systems.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-specific-chemicals-used-in-chemical-treatment-that-are-particularly-effective/
