The coagulation and flocculation of contaminants from water is a critical step in not only waste water treatment but the treatment of water used for industrial purposes as well. Lupasol® polyethyleneimines (PEI) can be used to broadly flocculate anionic contaminants from water such as zeolites, silicates, and proteins. Lupasol® can also form reversible complexes with divalent metal ions and is used in combination with ultrafiltration to remove heavy metals from water.
Common Water Treatment Applications
Waste Water Treatment
Waste water sludge needs to be dewatered prior to disposal. By separating contaminants from water the volume of waste and the cost of disposal can be greatly reduced. Lupasol® is an effective flocculant for common anionic contaminants like zeolites, silicates, and proteins.
Cooling Tower Water Treatment
Water for cooling tower operations needs to be demineralized to prevent solids being left behind. By decreasing blow down and increasing cycle of concentration cooling tower operations can remain more efficient and cost effective. Lupasol® works well to flocculate minerals from feed and makeup water.
Boiler Feed Water Treatment
The removal of dissolved solids is critical for boiler water treatment. The build up of sludge can damage plumbing and reduce the energy efficiency of a boiler. Lupasol® is used to flocculate silica, proteins, and other contaminates from feed water to prevent the build up of deposits.
Heavy Metal Separation
Most industrial waste water streams contain heavy metals that will not naturally degrade over time. These metals must be removed before the water can be discharged or reused. Lupasol® can form a reversible complex with multivalent metal ions like Zn, Hg. and Pb. These complexes can then be removed from the waste stream by ultrafiltration.
Recommended Grades
Typically high molecular weight grades of Lupasol® are recommended for flocculant and water treatment applications. Lupasol® P and Lupasol® SK are large PEI molecules and well suited as flocculants for water treatment.