Simple approach to estimate flocculent settling velocity in a dilute suspension

A new and simple approach for estimating the flocculent settling velocity of fine suspended particles is presented. The simplified formula has been derived based on a one-dimensional vertical continuity equation and an empirical flocculation equation. The resulting flocculent settling velocity (V_s) is expressed as a function of time, depth, and constants. Depth averaged settling velocity ( _s) is also derived by using the formula proposed. To estimate the order of magnitude of flocculent effects on settling, iso-settling velocity lines are constructed. The effects of initial concentration and ionic strength on flocculent settling velocity are investigated. The results show that as the ionic strength and suspension concentrations increase, flocculent settling velocity also increases due to inter-particle collisions and increased cohesion in suspension.