Date of Award
12-1970
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Department
Pulp and Paper Technology
First Advisor
Dr. Stephen Kukolich
Abstract
The factors controlling floc formation and cohesion are discussed in terms of fiber entanglement, electrokinetic potential and fiber-polymer bridging. The methods of measurement of zeta potential and degree of flocculation are also considered. In addition, an experiment is designed to relate zeta potential, molecular weight of synthetic polymers and the degree of flocculation of fines.
It is found that fiber length is the most predominant factor controlling flocculation. The bridging effect of polymer comes next. The higher the molecular weight, the greater the degree of flocculation. The electrokinetic potential effect is only influential if simple electrolytes are used as flocculant and if no bridging occurs in the system. Under such conditions, the magnitude of the zeta potential becomes significant.
Recommended Citation
Chiu, Kai F., "The Effects of Zeta Potential and Flocculant Molecular Chain Length on the Flocculation of Fines" (1970). Paper Engineering Senior Theses. 66.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/engineer-senior-theses/66