Over the years, bentonite clay mineral has been used extensively in a wide range of industrial applications due to its attractive properties. As a result, large volumes of highly stable bentonite suspension are generated continuously that need to be treated. Therefore, in this study, a hybrid system of Choline chloride-based natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) with polyacrylamide (PAM) has been employed for the treatment of bentonite suspension through coagulation/ flocculation. The influence of PAM with varying charge types and densities on the flocculation behaviour of the suspension has been investigated. The utilization of a hybrid system was found to have a profound effect on the electrokinetic and rheological behaviour of the suspension which was analyzed through zeta potential, floc size distribution, and viscosity. Hybrid systems with anionic PAMs and/or low charge density demonstrated a better flocculation performance compared to systems with cationic PAMs and/ or high charge density. Hence, suspensions treated with NADES/ low charge density anionic PAM hybrid system demonstrated the best flocculation performance with large and rigid flocs and with a zeta potential within the instability region. The observed behaviour is attributed to the attractive forces between the positively charged patches on the surface of the negatively charged particles, due to the presence of NADES, and the anionic PAMs. In addition to the adsorption capability of anionic PAMs on the negatively charged patches.

Influence of choline chloride-based natural deep eutectic solvent on the degree of flocculation and rheological behavior of bentonite polyacrylamide suspension

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.