Aluminum Sulfate For Water Treatment
Aluminum sulfate is a chemical compound with the formula Al2(SO4)3. It is commonly used in water treatment as a coagulant to remove impurities such as suspended solids, organic matter, and colloidal particles from water.
When added to water, aluminum sulfate dissociates into aluminum ions (Al3+) and sulfate ions (SO42-), which react with the impurities in the water to form flocs or clumps. These flocs settle to the bottom of the water or float to the surface, allowing for easy removal through filtration or skimming.
Aluminum sulfate is particularly effective in removing dissolved organic matter, such as humic acids, which can cause taste and odor problems in drinking water. It is also useful in removing particles that are too small to be removed by standard filtration methods, such as bacteria and viruses.
However, it is important to note that excessive use of aluminum sulfate can lead to increased levels of aluminum in the treated water, which can be harmful to human health. Therefore, it is essential to carefully monitor the dosage of aluminum sulfate used in water treatment and ensure that it is within safe limits.