Regularities of flocculation of aqueous kaolinite dispersions with binary compositions of cationic polyelectrolytes

The regularities of the flocculation of kaolin suspensions with binary mixtures of cationic polyelectrolytes are studied. The relationship between the viscosity of flocculant solutions and the conditions of efficient flocculation is studied. It is established that an increase in the sedimentation rate upon the application of binary mixtures of flocculants results form their synergistic effect. The synergistic effect is assumed to be due to a reduction in the swelling coefficient of adsorbed polyelectrolyte macromolecules, which gives rise to the formation of floccules with enhanced density and strength.