Association of dispersed particles into larger clusters, often after repulsive stabilization is weakened. Salt screening, reduced surface charge, polymer bridging or depletion force can promote it. Clusters may sediment rapidly; preventing aggregation and preventing gravitational separation are distinct stability requirements.
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Flocculation is a process that involves the aggregation of fine particles into a floc or flocs, which are larger clusters that can settle out of a liquid suspension. This process is commonly used in various industries, including water treatment, wastewater treatment, biotechnology, and food processing. In the context of water treatment, flocculation typically follows coagulation, where coagulants (such as aluminum sulfate or ferric chloride) are added to destabilize the charged particles in the water.