Feldspar flocculation performance using cationic and anionic flocculants in dual system: evaluation by turbidity, settling rate and flocculation efficiency

This study investigated the flocculation performance of feldspar using combinations of cationic and anionic flocculants in a dual flocculation system. Flocculation tests were performed with five different flocculants (C.1597, A.336, A.338, A.1011 and A.5250) at various dosages (0.2 mg/L to 12.5 mg/L). Flocculation performance was evaluated based on turbidity, settling rate, and flocculation efficiency. Among the flocculant combinations tested, the C.1597-A.338 combination showed that the most effective performance of both turbidity reduction and flocculation efficiency. In the flocculation tests, the highest settling rate was observed with the C.1597-A.338 and C.1597-A.1011 combinations. The C.1597-A.338 combination achieved 98.6% flocculation efficiency at a dosage of 1.6 mg/L and with the lowest turbidity value of 6.1 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Unit). The highest settling rate of 2700 mm/min was achieved for the C.1597-A.338 and C.1597-A.1011 combinations at the dosages of 8.5 mg/L and 12.5 mg/L values. This experimental study showed that optimum flocculation performance depends on the different flocculant combinations and dosages used in the dual flocculation system.