Chemicals used in wastewater treatment processes play a critical role in ensuring that contaminants in water are effectively removed. These chemicals are used to increase the effectiveness of physical and biological treatment methods, neutralize certain contaminants, and ensure that wastewater meets discharge standards.
Commonly used treatment chemicals include coagulants, flocculants, disinfectants, pH regulators, and oxidants. Coagulants cause small particles in water to come together to form larger, more easily settled structures. Flocculants help these large particles settle quickly, making water cleaner.