Centrifugation of polyelectrolyte flocculated clay slurry

The effects of polyelectrolyte flocculation on centrifugal sedimentation and filtration stages of clay slurry were highlighted in this study. The moisture removal efficiency was enhanced by flocculation and increasing the rotational speed. Slurry conditioned to charge neutralization point exhibited the best dewaterability. For flocculated sludges, the sedimentation effect became too significant to eliminate the centrifugal filtration stage. Over 93% of the moisture removal was accomplished by simply allowing the filtrate to flow through a compacted filter cake. Optimal flocculant dose and rotational speed were found in the centrifugal tests.