Design and process optimization of an integrated turbidity removal unit in a pilot-scale continuous-flow system using hybrid coagulants for decentralized water treatment
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Issued Date
2026-06-01
Resource Type
eISSN
26660164
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105027411416
Journal Title
Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering
Volume
13
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering Vol.13 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Chuiprasert J., Boonprasop S., Sopawanit K., Intraluk T., Taithipmathukon N., Takkawatakarn T., Chaiwat W. Design and process optimization of an integrated turbidity removal unit in a pilot-scale continuous-flow system using hybrid coagulants for decentralized water treatment. Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering Vol.13 (2026). doi:10.1016/j.cscee.2026.101327 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/114627
Title
Design and process optimization of an integrated turbidity removal unit in a pilot-scale continuous-flow system using hybrid coagulants for decentralized water treatment
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Abstract
This study investigates a compact pilot-scale continuous-flow system for turbidity removal from raw water, integrating chemical and hydrodynamic optimization. A horizontal sedimentation tank was designed and evaluated under varying conditions, including a hybrid inorganic-organic coagulant-flocculant system using polyaluminum chloride (PAC) and polyacrylamide (PAM), coagulant dosages, influent flow rates, aeration, baffle number, and inclination angle. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to predict and optimize system performance. Optimization indicated that 45 ppm PAC and 2 ppm PAM achieved the highest turbidity removal efficiency of 94.3 % at a low flow rate of 0.5 L/min with aeration at 300 mL/min. At a moderate flow rate of 1.25 L/min, thirteen baffles set at a 75° inclination provided optimal hydraulic performance, yielding 85.3 % removal. Integration of a gravel-sand-anthracite filtration unit further increased removal to 98.3 %. RSM revealed significant interactions between influent flow rate and baffle configuration, enabling prediction and optimization of overall system performance. Mechanistic analysis illustrated floc formation behavior under different PAC and PAM dosages. By combining chemical optimization, hydraulic design, and multiple unit processes in a compact pilot-scale system, this study demonstrates an effective and adaptable approach for decentralized water treatment, suitable for rural, emergency, or resource-limited environments.