Polymeric flocculants based on the interfacial characteristics of fine clay minerals: A review
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Anhui University of Science and Technology
Publication date: 2022-05-02
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Fanfei Min
Anhui University of Science and Technology
Physicochem. Probl. Miner. Process. 2022;58(4):149652
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ABSTRACT
Fine clay minerals, found in various industrial effluents, have attracted much attention in recent times. They can form a highly stable suspension in water and increase the complexity of sedimentation for the treatment of wastewater. In the past few decades, the flocculation of fine clay minerals has been significantly improved due to numerous design advancements in the molecular weight, charge density and structure of polymeric flocculants. In this article, the interfacial characteristics and affecting factors of clay minerals are discussed, the design, synthesis and application of synthetic polymers, natural polymers and natural-based grafted polymers are reviewed, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of three types of polymers. The development direction of upgrading existing clay mineral flocculants is proposed based on the interfacial characteristics of clay minerals. Weakening the hydration of clay minerals, altering the manner of molecular interaction and precisely controlling the structure of polymer chains are the design objectives of novel polymeric flocculants.