Specifics of kaolin dispersion flocculation due to a polyelectrolyte complex formation on particle surface

The paper describes the study of flocculation characteristics of kaolin aqueous dispersion in successive introduction of high molecular weight oppositely charged polymers. It was established that flocculation in successive modes of introduction of cationic polyelectrolyte of poly-trimethyloxyethylmethacryloylammonium methyl sulfate (K) and anionic polyelectrolyte poly-2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid (A) is accompanied by an increase in sedimentation rate and formation of more dense floccules compared with the use of individual polyelectrolytes. The paper discusses the difference in the mechanisms of flocculation in the presence of oppositely charged polymers, including the possibility of forming a polyelectrolyte complex on the surface of colloidal particles.