This study examined the selection and application of an appropriate coagulant to improve water quality in the total phosphorus (TP) treatment facility of a wastewater treatment plant located in S City. The facility was using a chemical treatment proce...
This study examined the selection and application of an appropriate coagulant to improve water quality in the total phosphorus (TP) treatment facility of a wastewater treatment plant located in S City. The facility was using a chemical treatment process with 17% inorganic polymer coagulant, polyaluminum chloride (PAC). During the winter season, the low solubility and reduced alkalinity of the 17% PAC decreased its reactivity, leading to sludge formation and clogging of the chemical feed lines. Jar test results indicated that a higher-basicity 10% PAC offered superior performance in solid-liquid separation, and applied to a full-scale TP treatment system utilizing the swirling-flow dissolved air flotation (S-DAF) process. Operational data from year 2019 to 2021, when 17% PAC was used, were compared with data from year 2022 to 2024, after switching to 10% PAC. Following the implementation of 10% PAC, chemical usage decreased but overall chemical costs increased due to the higher unit price of the coagulant. Since year 2021, the influent TP concentration has risen, resulting in increased chemical consumption. High-basicity 10% PAC was found to be more effective than the 17% PAC in enhancing water quality and operational stability, making it a favorable alternative for wastewater treatment facilities.