Implications of Fe(II) and Turbulence on the Kaolin Floc Size

Estuaries are dynamic environments where the interplay of physical, chemical, and biological factors shape sediment behaviour. Aggregation and breakup of flocs are mainly resulted from the direct or indirect influence of these factors. Floc aggregation and disintegration can be easily identified by analysing the floc size of the particles within the given environment. The present study explores the influence of Fe(II), salinity, and turbulence on the flocculation of cohesive sediments in estuaries. Laboratory experiments were carried out to assess the floc size of the kaolin particles under different conditions of Fe(II), salinity and turbulence. The results suggested a direct correlation between the floc size with Fe(II) and salinity, indicating an association with floc growth. Conversely, turbulence exhibited a negative relationship with floc size. A model predicting average floc size has been developed and subsequently validated. Additionally, sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the degree of variation between predicted and observed values of floc size.