Analysis of sludge aggregates produced during electrocoagulation of model wastewater.

This paper presents the results of the study of sludge aggregates produced during electrocoagulation of model wastewater of a composition corresponding to the effluents from the cellulose and paper industry. Wastewater was electrocoagulated statically using aluminium electrodes with a current density of 31.25 A m(-2) and 62.50 A m(-2). In subsequent stages of the treatment, sludge flocs were collected, their size was studied and their floc settling velocity (30-520 µm s(-1)) and fractal dimension (D) were determined. The values of D ranged from 1.53 to 1.95 and were directly proportional to the degree of wastewater treatment. Higher values of D were determined for sludge with lower water content (after 24 hours' settling). Fractal dimension can therefore be used as an additional parameter of wastewater treatment control.

Simulation of coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation.

The computer program ZB2 was used to study simulated coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation. The effect of the initial velocity of soil particles on the values of reaction-rate constants was investigated. In this respect, the results obtained with the program ZB2 corresponded to the theory and realities of coagulation carried out under practical conditions. The effect of coagulant excess/deficiency on the formation of the first floc and on the rate of coagulation of 50% of a soil was also estimated. An increase in simulated coagulant excess caused a decrease in the simulated rate of soil coagulation. In this respect, the results obtained with the program ZB2 did not correspond to the realities of coagulation carried out under practical conditions. An attempt was made to explain this inconsistency referring to the coagulation-flocculation theory. The simulation program ZB2 may provide a basis for developing "local" programs simulating coagulation-flocculation, which can be successfully applied at wastewater treatment plants.