Polyaluminium chloride (PAC), also sometimes referred to as Polyaluminium Hydroxide Chloride Sulphate (PAX), is a widely used water treatment chemical known for its efficiency. Here's a breakdown of its key points:
- Chemical composition: PAC is an inorganic polymeric chemical containing aluminum, chloride, and hydroxide ions.
- Form: Typically found as a clear or slightly yellow acidic solution.
- Function: PAC acts as a coagulant in water treatment. This means it binds to small particles, organic matter, and impurities suspended in the water, causing them to clump together (flocculate). These larger flocs then settle out or are easily filtered out of the water, leaving it cleaner.
Benefits of using PAC for water treatment:
- Highly effective: PAC is known for its efficient coagulation abilities, requiring lower dosages compared to some other coagulants.
- Broad pH range: PAC works effectively across a wider range of water pH levels than some other treatment options.
- Lower sludge production: Compared to other coagulants, PAC often generates less sludge as a byproduct, simplifying disposal.
Applications of PAC:
- Drinking water treatment: PAC is a common choice for purifying water for human consumption by removing impurities and suspended particles.
- Wastewater treatment: PAC plays a role in treating wastewater from municipalities and industries by clarifying the water before discharge or further treatment.
- Swimming pool water treatment: PAC can be used to improve pool water clarity and flocculate particles for easier removal by filtration.
