Chemicals Lime Alum Poly Chlorine

Lime, alum, and polyaluminum chloride (polyaluminum chloride is a type of poly chloride) are chemicals commonly used in water and wastewater treatment for various purposes. Each chemical serves specific functions in the treatment process. Here's an overview of their uses:

1. Lime (Calcium Hydroxide or Quicklime):

Function:

• pH Adjustment: Lime is used to raise the pH of acidic water. It reacts with acidic substances to neutralize them, helping to prevent corrosion of pipes and equipment.

Applications:

• Water Softening: Lime is employed to reduce water hardness by precipitating calcium and magnesium ions.
• Wastewater Treatment: Lime is used for pH adjustment and to aid in the precipitation of impurities, such as heavy metals and phosphates.
• Sludge Stabilization: Lime is added to wastewater sludge to raise the pH, control odors, and aid in the stabilization of organic matter.

2. Alum (Aluminum Sulfate):

Function:

• Coagulation and Flocculation: Alum is a coagulant that destabilizes particles in water, allowing them to clump together (flocculate) and settle out.

Applications:

• Drinking Water Treatment: Alum is used to clarify water by removing suspended particles.
• Wastewater Treatment: Alum is applied for primary treatment to assist in the removal of solids and phosphorus.
• Paper Industry: Alum is used in papermaking for sizing, coloring, and retention of fibers.

3. Polyaluminum Chloride (PAC):

Function:

• Coagulation: PAC is a coagulant that can be an alternative to traditional aluminum-based coagulants like alum.

Applications:

• Drinking Water Treatment: PAC is used for coagulation and flocculation to clarify water.
• Wastewater Treatment: PAC is applied in the treatment of industrial and municipal wastewater to enhance solids removal.
• Swimming Pool Water Treatment: PAC is used for water clarification and to aid in the removal of impurities.