Understanding the difference between a coagulant and a flocculant
Most synthetic clarifiers are strictly coagulants meaning they are effective at grabbing negative-charged micron particles and forming coagulated larger particles. These larger particles may or may not be removed by filtration. The micron limit of the filter being used determines if the coagulated particles are capable of being removed. One example would be a high-rate sand filter that is only capable of removing particles down to 25 microns. Therefore, any smaller coagulated materials could continue to pass through.
A strong polyelectrolyte such as chitosan has the ability to not only coagulate, but also form bridges that gather several coagulated particles onto an aggregate known as a floc. The flocs formed by chitosan are termed ‘neutrally buoyant.’ This means the flocs of chitosan are so near the weight of water that they neither sink nor float, but are held in suspension to be removed by the filter. As chitosan is a non-petroleum clarifier, it is much more effective at removing the highest amount of non-living organic material using a complete flocculation method. The result is clearer water and cleaner filters.
A great synergy for clean water
Which is better… a broad spectrum enzyme or a chitosan-based clarifier? The answer is both. When enzymes are used in conjunction with chitosan, there is a synergistic clearing of the water. While enzymes are working to quickly break down non-living organics, chitosan is working to gather and flocculate materials as well. Also, chitosan is more tolerant to higher chlorine levels and can act as a backup to enzymes when a pool or spa/hot tub is being shocked.
Many pool professionals who have incorporated a maintenance system comprising chitosan and enzymes have reported improved water clarity. Incorporating both enzymatic digestion along with highly effective flocculation removal of non-living organic particles leads to excellent water clarity. The cost to integrate an enzyme and chitosan clarifier is very minimal compared to the savings in time and labour involved to frequently clean filters and waterlines. The removal of non-living organic particles also means a better swimming experience for bathers with better feeling water and the reduction of unpleasant odours.
Today, there are now many blended enzyme and chitosan clarifier products available on the market. These products provide a double-edged sword approach for pool and spa/hot tub professionals in making sure their customers have the clearest water possible. These unique technologies can accomplish so much together and are worth incorporating into a pool and/or spa/hot tub maintenance program.
Terry Arko has more than 40 years of experience in the pool, spa and hot tub industry, working in service, repair, retail sales, chemical manufacturing, and product development. He is a certified pool operator (CPO) instructor through the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF). He also serves as instructor for the Pool Chemistry Training Institute (PCTI) to certify residential pool techs. Arko is an active member on the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) Recreational Water Quality Committee (RWQC). He is a member of Pool & Spa Marketing‘s Editorial Advisory Committee and currently serves as a water specialist for NC Brands, parent company of SeaKlear, Natural Chemistry and Coral Seas. He can be reached via e-mail at tarko@ncbrands.com.
