Coagulant choice is driven by a number of factors,
including removal performance, chemical supply, and
chemical cost. In most cases, the properties of the
flocs that form downstream are given little consideration.
This article presents floc structural data obtained
during the coagulation of a water source rich in natural
organic matter (NOM) under optimum conditions
for a range of coagulant systems. The evaluation
of floc structure includes traditional coagulants such
as ferric sulfate and alum. In addition, given the
recent emphasis on improving NOM removal, flocs
formed from more novel treatment options such as
polymers and ion exchange resin pretreatment were
investigated. The authors offer a rigorous comparison
of NOM flocs formed from different coagulants by
measuring key structural parameters. This article
provides water managers with important information
for deciding which coagulant should be used during
the treatment of waters containing high concentrations
of NOM. Includes 41 references, tables, figures.