Market Opportunity of Polymers in Industrial Wastewater ClarificationMarket Opportunity of Polymers in Industrial Wastewater Clarification

For buyers and sellers in the processing, handling, and packaging of dry particulates, understanding the market potential of polymers is important. Polymer materials often exist in the form of a powder, with the individual polymer chains presenting as small, discrete particles. This allows for polymer processing and handling in a free-flowing state.

Polymers are often used in various applications such as additive manufacturing (3D printing) where the powder is later melted or fused together to form a solid polymer part, as well as in powder coating and industrial wastewater clarification in particular. Chemical polymers are used to help comply with EPA wastewater regulations and reclaim valuable resources, when added to industrial clarifiers, settling ponds, and other wastewater equipment at various stages of treatment.

In this interview, Powder & Bulk Solids explores the chemical polymers wastewater clarification market with industry expert Shane Schmutzler, president of Port Washington, WI-based Jadair International Inc., a provider of systems for polymer preparation, water clarification, and materials reclamation for various industries.

Q: Briefly, what’s the role of polymers in water clarification?

A: In water clarification, polymers promote flocculation, a process in which small particles clump together into larger particles called flocs, which settle to the bottom. The clarified water can then be discharged for re-use, disposal, or further treatment.

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Q: For readers of Powder & Bulk Solids, what’s the challenge and opportunity in understanding role of polymers in water clarification?

A: The problem with this highly effective and economical method of removing suspended solids from wastewater is that not just any polymer will do. In fact, the polymer selected for the application and the preparation system that mixes and injects the product into the clarifier determines the quality of separation/clarified water, the dryness of solids, and the amount and cost of polymer required.

Replacing less effective polymers can reduce polymer costs by up to 50% while improving the experience of the operator, facility, and community (Jadair).

Selecting the correct polymer, ensuring its proper preparation, and optimizing the chemical reaction all have a significant impact on water and solids quality. A more meticulous approach to polymer and the make-down system can reduce costs by lowering the amount of polymer required and ultimately produce better solids and cleaner, higher quality water.

To improve subpar flocculation outcomes, transitioning to superior polymers and preparation systems can promptly boost performance without modifying other existing system components.

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Replacing less effective polymers can reduce polymer costs by up to 50% while improving the experience of the operator, facility, and community.

Q: Where do polymer suppliers tend to struggle in serving the in water clarification market?

A: Polymer suppliers often struggle not only in selecting the optimal polymer for the task but also in system design and application. Incorrect polymer preparation and application can lead to compromised water quality and increased chemical consumption. The costs escalate if the user is found to be non-compliant with local, state, or federal environmental standards, and fines are levied or corrective actions mandated.

For optimal results, meticulous polymer selection is imperative. This includes a variety of polymers such as powdered and emulsion-type flocculants and coagulants.

Q: So, how can you determine the best polymer for each water clarification application?

A: To determine the best polymer for each application, Jadair provides water testing and evaluation services. This water testing, also known as jar testing, ensures optimum water quality and performance for all water clarification systems.

We then work directly with multiple polymer manufacturers to identify the best product for each application.

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Ultimately, a polymer tailored to the specific process yields the best results, producing cleaner water along with higher quality solids.

Jadair also manufactures standalone polymer preparation systems in various forms and sizes that can be used with existing settling ponds, clarifiers, and other wastewater treatment equipment.

Polymers usually come in a concentrated powder or liquid form that must be transformed into a usable solution in a polymer preparation or “make-down” system.

The concentrated polymer needs to be diluted, mixed, and prepared for application to optimize the polymer reaction and effectiveness. The goal is to design the system so the polymer delivers the best reaction possible with the lowest polymer usage.

Q: Can the polymer system can be used in conjunction with a clarifier system to improve the water clarification process?

A: Yes, the polymer system can be used in conjunction with a clarifier system to improve the water clarification process.

Our settler/clarifier systems provide a continuous supply of clarified water while separating out thick, drier solids in an automated process. The process is even more efficient when using properly specified and prepared polymers.

With a Jadair settler/clarifier system, a polymer is injected into the water stream before it enters the machine. After the polymer promotes flocculation, the clarified water is discharged into a receiving tank for re-use. The system separates the suspended solids and brings them out in a thickened form that does not require secondary processing. The solids are removed from the machine and accumulate in front of the system, they can then be handled by a loader or belt conveyor.

Our discharged solids can be easily scooped up by loaders and stacked for further drying or for sale to companies such as those involved in landscaping, landfill, or soil remineralization. What was once a waste product can become a saleable product.

The polymer system can even be used with existing settling ponds or other equipment to help keep the water cleaner and make settled solids easier to handle.

Q: Do you have any last words for our readers on the importance of polymer use in the industrial wastewater market?

A: Effective water clarification is crucial in numerous industries. Properly applied polymers and polymer systems can improve results while reducing wastewater and solids discharge problems. Industry experts utilizing optimal techniques to address these challenges can streamline operations, prevent environmental compliance violations, and recover valuable water and solids for reuse or disposal.

For more information, call 800-669-3411 or visit www.jadair.com.