Characterising natural organic matter flocs

Using a dynamic optical technique and settling column apparatus, natural organic matter floe structural characteristics were monitored and evaluated over a one year period to monitor the seasonal variation in floe structure at optimum coagulation dose and pH. The results show that flocs changed seasonally with different growth rates, size, response to shear and settling rate. Autumn and summer flocs were shown to be larger and less resistant to floe breakage when compared to the other seasons, suggesting reduced floe strength. Floe strength was observed to increase with smaller median floe size. The results of the settling tests indicated that the autumnal flocs were of a more open structure which helped to explain why they settled faster. In summary, the autumnal flocs had significantly different floe characteristics although it was difficult to relate the floe structure with the incoming water characteristics.