Optimization of Gravity-Driven Hydraulic Flocculators to Treat Peat Extraction Runoff Water

Abstract

Peatland drainage and peat extraction result in runoff water rich in humus, sediments, and nutrients that requires simple purification methods to prevent pollution of surface waters. Chemical treatment of drainage water has been suggested as best management practice. However, good chemical purification results require flocculators to achieve efficient particle aggregation. This study evaluated gravity-driven hydraulic flocculators using full-scale three-dimensional (3D) computational fluid dynamic (CFD) turbulence models to simulate hydraulics, combined with data obtained in jar tests to estimate optimal mixing conditions for coagulation [velocity gradient (