Polyelectrolytes as a Material of Value in Water Treatment: A Review

Abstract

The use of polyelectrolytes in the treatment of water/wastewater has been studied with special emphasis on the characteristic impurities, which should be removed and the types of polyelectrolytes commonly available. Much attention is being on using polyelectrolyte as primary coagulation, their application as a coagulant aid, including the use of dual polyelectrolytes in the treatment of complex industrial wastewater. The optimum dosage of polyelectrolytes in all kinds of water and wastewater is very low when they are used as coagulant aids in conjunction with inorganic polyelectrolytes. Hence, the quantification of remaining polyelectrolytes in the water after their treatment is ruled out in this case. Polymer toxicity in aquatic animals has been assessed and the presence of residual polyelectrolytes in the treated water has been discussed. Keeping in view the applicability of these polyelectrolytes for the removal of contaminants, it is expected that this technique can be applied for further investigation in various types of water from different origins.