Aluminum Hydroxychloride vs. Polyaluminum Chloride (PAC): A Comparative Analysis
In the advanced coagulant market, Aluminum Hydroxychloride (ACH) and Polyaluminum Chloride (PAC) are prominent players, both offering significant advantages over traditional coagulants like alum. While both are based on aluminum chemistry, they possess distinct properties that influence their performance and application suitability. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD offers insights into the comparative analysis of ACH and PAC for optimal water treatment strategies.
The primary differentiator between ACH and PAC lies in their basicity and molecular structure. Aluminum Hydroxychloride is characterized by a higher degree of polymerization and a higher basicity (typically 75-90%) compared to most PAC products (often around 50% basicity). Basicity is a measure of the molar ratio of hydroxyl groups to aluminum atoms, and a higher basicity generally correlates with a higher positive charge density on the aluminum species. This higher charge is a key factor in ACH's superior performance in charge neutralization and its ability to form stronger, denser flocs.
Consequently, ACH often requires lower dosages to achieve the same level of turbidity removal or contaminant destabilization when compared to PAC. This dosage efficiency translates directly into cost savings for users, both in terms of chemical expenditure and reduced sludge generation. The higher basicity of ACH also means it has a lesser impact on the pH of the treated water, often eliminating the need for pH adjustment chemicals, which is a common requirement when using PAC or alum.
In terms of application, both ACH and PAC are widely used in municipal drinking water treatment and industrial wastewater purification. However, ACH's enhanced performance, particularly its efficiency in cold water conditions and its superior floc-forming capabilities, can make it the preferred choice for more demanding applications or where precise pH control is critical. ACH's suitability for use as an antiperspirant ingredient also sets it apart from PAC, which is not typically used in cosmetic formulations.
While PAC is a versatile and effective coagulant, the higher basicity and resulting performance advantages of ACH, particularly in terms of dosage efficiency, sludge reduction, and pH stability, often position it as a premium choice for optimizing water treatment processes. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD provides both ACH and PAC, allowing our clients to select the most appropriate solution based on their specific water quality challenges, operational goals, and economic considerations. Understanding these differences is key to making informed decisions for achieving superior water treatment outcomes.
Perspectives & Insights
Alpha Spark Labs
“This dosage efficiency translates directly into cost savings for users, both in terms of chemical expenditure and reduced sludge generation.”
Future Pioneer 88
“The higher basicity of ACH also means it has a lesser impact on the pH of the treated water, often eliminating the need for pH adjustment chemicals, which is a common requirement when using PAC or alum.”
Core Explorer Pro
“In terms of application, both ACH and PAC are widely used in municipal drinking water treatment and industrial wastewater purification.”