The process of flocculation is the gathering together or aggregation of small masses, usually in a liquid media, into larger masses called flocs. Although this definition is generally applicable, various other definitions or refinements, especially when used in conjunction with the term coagulation, may be found in the literature. Small suspended particles or colloids impede the separation of solids and liquids, resulting, for example, in excessively long sedimentation or filtration times. Increasing the particle size by flocculation alleviates these difficulties. The objectives of flocculation are to allow rapid separation or drainage of the liquid phase from a suspended solid phase, minimize the solids remaining in the liquid phase, and maximize the solids content in the solid phase (dewatering). In order for flocculation to occur, chemicals called flocculants or coagulants are introduced to the solid suspension. Most of these chemicals are water‐soluble polymers The principal practical applications of flocculation are in raw and waste‐water clarification, sludge dewatering, mineral processing, and paper making.
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