The Practical Application of Fractal Dimension in Water Treatment Practice–the Impact of Polymer Dosing

Abstract

The application of floc fractal dimension has been investigated in this work to determine if this parameter can have operational significance in water treatment. Natural organic matter suspensions were coagulated with aluminium sulphate and varying concentrations of a non‐ionic polymer. The fractal dimensions of the flocs formed were measured using light scattering and settling combined with image analysis. By using the correct methodology, optimum floc properties could be determined using the floc fractal dimension combined with the floc size and strength data.

Keywords:

• Coagulation
• floc
• fractal dimension
• polymer

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Yorkshire Water for funding this work.