The Mechanism of Flocculation Processes in the Presence of Humic Substances

Abstract

The mechanism of flocculation of clay suspensions in various conditions of interaction with humic and fulvic acids has been investigated using a radioactively labelled cationic polyelectrolyte. It was found that the presence of organic matter in solution or as a complex on the mineral clay particle surface inhibits the process of flocculation. Therefore large doses of flocculant are necessary to produce conditions favorable for complete reaction.