What does the term “floc” refer to in water treatment?

The term "floc" specifically refers to aggregates formed during the coagulation process in water treatment. Coagulation involves adding chemicals, known as coagulants, to water to destabilize fine particles and facilitate their aggregation into larger clusters. This process enhances the removal of these particles from the water during subsequent treatment stages.

Floc can significantly improve settling characteristics and make it easier to separate impurities from the water, which ultimately results in cleaner water. Once the floc is formed, it can settle under gravity or be removed through filtration, depending on the treatment system in use. Understanding floc formation is crucial as it plays a vital role in the effectiveness and efficiency of water treatment operations.