Explain Coagulation

• Surface waters must be treated to remove turbidity, color and bacteria
• The traditional sand filtration is not sufficient in removing bacteria, viruses, soil particles and color
• Object of coagulation (and flocculation) is to turn the small particles of color, turbidity, and bacteria into larger flocs either as precipitates or suspended particles which can then be removed
• Typically coagulation is referred to a method to alter the colloids so that they will be able to approach each other and adhere to form larger floc