Using Zeta Potential for Optimising Coagulation

For the water industry product quality is non-negotiable and demonstrating consistent compliance is essential. However, many facilities lack the capability to respond quickly and efficiently to fluctuations in raw water quality or process events. Suitable analytical tools are key for maintaining stable operation at all times, even in the event of significant changes in the plant as well as for reducing chemical dosage levels and sludge production to optimal minimum.

Malvern Instruments offers fit for purpose, robust, fully automated systems for monitoring charge neutralisation processes. These measure zeta potential, a parameter that directly quantifies the tendency of suspended particles to coagulate and sediment. This technology enables optimisation of NOM removal and maintaining a stable clarification process that is critical for overall plant performance. Zeta potential measurements set a firm foundation for dosing control while at the same time providing the operations team with confidence through science-based decision making.

Zeta potential measurement technology can be used in the laboratory for the off-line study and optimization of flocculation/coagulation processes. It can also be implemented online, offering the opportunity for regular monitoring with fully automatic functionality and direct connection to plant SCADA. Malvern Instruments (Stand 16) will be exhibiting both its off-line and on-line solutions for zeta potential measurement at WWEM 2016 - the Zetasizer Nano and the Zetasizer WT respectively. They will also be exhibiting the Nanosight NS300 which can be used to quantify nanoparticle concentration and size and hence useful for monitoring and optimising microfiltration processes. Malvern will also be presenting a joint poster with Severn Trent on the use of zeta potential measurements for optimising coagulant control and will be running a complimentary workshop to show how this can be implemented in practise using the Zetasizer WT.