Pre-treatment chemicals

Abstract

Abstract A major consideration, in relation to solid/liquid separation processes, is the selection of pre-treatment chemicals. These range from simple inorganic salts which effect changes in pH, zeta potential etc., to speciality products such as synthetic polyelectrolytes and surfactant dewatering aids. The selection of an appropriate pre-treatment is generally made having regard for results obtained from empirical laboratory testwork. Such results are used in the paper to demonstrate the influence of the different groups of products, and further illustration is made by reference to their application in a variety od industries and processes.