As a highly effective inorganic polymer flocculant, polyferric sulfate (PFS) holds a significant position in the water treatment field. Its multi-dimensional mechanism of action achieves superior water purification through synergistic effects.
In terms of hydrolysis, when polyferric sulfate (PFS) comes into contact with water, the iron ions (Fe³⁺) in the ferric sulfate molecules rapidly react with water molecules. This hydrolysis process causes the iron ions and water molecules to recombine, forming hydroxyl ions (OH⁻) and ferric ion hydrates. These hydrolysis products possess unique chemical activity and can react with various pollutants in water, such as soluble colloidal particles, altering their surface properties and creating conditions for subsequent purification.
Oxidation is another important method for polyferric sulfate to purify water. Leveraging its oxidizing properties, it can undergo redox reactions with some organic and inorganic matter in water. In this process, soluble pollutants are oxidized and converted into insoluble precipitates. For example, polyferric sulfate can oxidize some reducing organic pollutants, changing their structure from soluble to precipitated, thereby separating them from the water.
Adsorption properties are also key to the effectiveness of polyferric sulfate. Its unique porous structure and high surface activity give it powerful adsorption capabilities. These numerous adsorption sites act as “catchers,” precisely capturing pollutants such as organic matter and heavy metal ions in water. Whether it’s organic pigments in dye wastewater or heavy metal ions like lead and mercury in industrial wastewater, polyferric sulfate effectively adsorbs and fixes them, removing them from the water.
Precipitation is the final step in polyferric sulfate’s water purification process. The hydrolysis and oxidation products interact to form stable, insoluble precipitates. These precipitates are dense and quickly settle to the bottom of the water column. During sedimentation, the precipitates collide with suspended matter in the water, agglomerating and collecting them like a snowball, ultimately trapping more pollutants. Ultimately, the suspended matter, organic matter, and heavy metal ions are separated, significantly purifying the water.
It is the combined effect of a series of principles including hydrolysis reaction, oxidation, adsorption and precipitation that enables polyferric sulfate to efficiently remove various pollutants in water. It is widely used in many fields such as drinking water treatment and industrial wastewater purification, providing strong guarantees for improving water quality.
