Comparison of polyelectrolytes applied in drinking water treatment

The applicability of an inorganic, polyaluminium-type flocculent was tested comparing to polyacrylamides - an organic-type flocculent - used in the drinking water treatment process. The efficiency of this inorganic flocculent in the removal of suspended solids and also in minimizing the residual concentrations of the dissolved organic and inorganic micro-pollutants was checked in the case of purifying filter backwash water. Experimental data showed the advantage of the inorganic flocculent applying procedure as a part of recent water treatment technology. The applied polyaluminium-salt was economically competitive, improved the process stability and also ensured good water quality parameters. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.