How to Optimize the Combination of PAC and PAM to Enhance Wastewater Treatment Efficiency?

In the wastewater treatment industry, Poly Aluminum Chloride (PAC) and Polyacrylamide (PAM) are widely used as core coagulants and flocculants. However, how should these two chemicals be optimally combined to achieve better wastewater purification results?

1.Mechanism of PAC and PAM in Wastewater Treatment

-Poly Aluminum Chloride (PAC): A Highly Efficient Coagulant
PAC is an inorganic polymer coagulant that works mainly through charge neutralization and bridging adsorption, enabling suspended particles to aggregate into larger flocs. PAC is effective in removing turbidity, organic matter, and metal ions from wastewater and is widely used in industrial wastewater, domestic sewage, and municipal wastewater treatment.

-Polyacrylamide (PAM): A Powerful Flocculant
PAM is an organic polymer flocculant that enhances floc formation and accelerates sedimentation. It further strengthens the flocs formed by PAC, making them easier to settle, thereby improving sludge dewatering performance. Depending on the wastewater type, PAM can be classified into anionic, cationic, and non-ionic types, each suitable for different water conditions.

2.Best PAC & PAM Combination Methods

Add PAC first, then PAM

The optimal wastewater treatment sequence is to add PAC first, followed by PAM, for the following reasons:

• PAC destabilizes the suspended particles, causing them to coagulate into larger flocs.
• PAM enhances floc adhesion and accelerates sedimentation, improving solid-liquid separation efficiency.

Optimize Dosage (Avoid Overuse of PAC and PAM)

Different wastewater types require different PAC and PAM dosages. The recommended general values are:

Note: The exact dosage should be adjusted based on laboratory tests to achieve the best flocculation performance.

Ensure Proper Mixing and Reaction Time

• PAC should be fully mixed with the wastewater to ensure thorough particle coagulation, with an optimal reaction time of 3-5 minutes.
• PAM should be added slowly while maintaining low shear stirring to avoid breaking the flocs. The recommended reaction time is 10-15 minutes.

PAC & PAM Applications in Different Industries

-Municipal Wastewater Treatment
PAC is used for primary coagulation and sedimentation, while a small amount of PAM enhances sludge dewatering efficiency and reduces sludge treatment costs.

-Coal Mine and Mineral Processing Wastewater
PAC helps remove suspended mineral particles, while PAM (anionic type) enhances sedimentation speed and improves clean water recovery rates.

-Textile & Dyeing Wastewater Treatment
PAC effectively removes color, suspended solids, and COD, while PAM (anionic or cationic type) strengthens flocculation and improves sludge dewatering.

-Food Processing Wastewater Treatment
PAC removes organic matter and oils, while PAM (cationic type) improves sludge settling and dewatering efficiency.

-Paper Mill Wastewater Treatment
PAC reduces COD and color, while PAM (cationic type) enhances fiber recovery and improves sludge dewatering efficiency.

3.Advantages of Using PAC and PAM Together

✅ Enhanced coagulation and reduced chemical consumption
✅ Improved sludge settling and dewatering efficiency
✅ Adaptability to various wastewater types
✅ Optimized clean water recovery and reduced water wastage

4. The Scientific Combination of PAC and PAM for

In wastewater treatment, the correct combination of PAC and PAM not only enhances treatment efficiency, reduces costs, and improves solid-liquid separation but is also applicable to different industrial and municipal wastewater types. To determine the most effective chemical dosage, enterprises should conduct small-scale tests for optimal results.

If you have any questions regarding PAC and PAM selection or dosage, feel free to contact us. We provide professional water treatment solutions tailored to your needs!