what is flocculation

Flocculation is a process in which suspended particles in a liquid or solution are encouraged to bind together and form larger agglomerate particles known as "flocs". This process is typically achieved through the addition of specialized chemicals known as flocculants, which promote particle clumping and aid in the collision and attachment of particles. Flocculation is important in many industries and natural systems, allowing for the separation of solids from liquids and the purification of water and other liquids. In colloid chemistry, flocculation refers to the process by which fine particulates are caused to clump together into a floc, which may then float to the top of the liquid (creaming), settle to the bottom of the liquid (sedimentation), or be readily filtered from the liquid. In civil engineering and earth sciences, flocculation is a condition in which clays, polymers, or other small charged particles become attached and form a fragile structure, a floc. Flocculation is also utilized in wastewater treatment, where it is fundamental for the removal of suspended particles and the purification of water.