What combines coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation in a single unit?

The upflow clarifier is an innovative treatment unit that integrates coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation processes within a single system. In this device, water flows upward through a bed of settling particles, which encourages the formation of larger flocs by allowing the small, suspended particles to interact more effectively with the coagulants added to the water.

The coagulation process involves adding chemicals to destabilize the particles, leading to the formation of microflocs. Following this, the upward flow allows these microflocs to collide and aggregate into larger flocs during the flocculation phase. As water continues to rise, the larger flocs settle out through the bed of particulate material or are separated from the water column, achieving effective sedimentation.

This combination offers several advantages, such as compact design, efficiency in space usage, and enhanced treatment capability, making it beneficial for various water and wastewater treatment applications.