Coagulation vs Flocculation: Difference, Chemicals & Order
Coagulation neutralizes the charge on suspended particles (with PAC, PFS or alum); flocculation then bridges those destabilized particles into large flocs (with PAM) that settle quickly. They are dosed in that order.
Coagulants vs flocculants
- Coagulants (inorganic, high charge): PAC, PFS, alum, PolyDADMAC.
- Flocculants (high-MW polymers): PAM, polyamine.
Dosing order & jar test
Add coagulant first (rapid mix), then flocculant (slow mix) — jar-test to find optimum doses. For colored wastewater add a decoloring agent first.
Coagulation vs flocculation at a glance
| Coagulation | Flocculation | |
|---|---|---|
| Job | Neutralize particle charge | Bridge particles into flocs |
| Chemicals | PAC, PFS, alum, PolyDADMAC | PAM, polyamine |
| Mixing | Rapid mix | Slow mix |
| Order | First | Second |
Watch
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between coagulation and flocculation?
Coagulation neutralizes particle charge; flocculation bridges the particles into large flocs that settle. Coagulant is dosed first, flocculant second.
Is PAC a coagulant or flocculant?
PAC (poly aluminium chloride) is a coagulant; PAM (polyacrylamide) is a flocculant.
About the manufacturer
VCYCLETECH is a China-based manufacturer of water treatment chemicals — antiscalants, scale & corrosion inhibitors, coagulants, flocculants, biocides, dispersants and paper chemicals — ISO 9001 / 14001 / 45001 certified, with a COA on every batch and OEM/ODM service. See our quality & certifications.
Related: Mining & municipal · Wastewater decolorization · PAC · PAM