Which chemical compound is commonly used to destabilize colloids in water treatment?

Aluminum sulfate is commonly used in water treatment processes to destabilize colloids, which helps in the clarification and purification of water. The mechanism involves the formation of aluminum hydroxide when aluminum sulfate dissolves in water. This compound acts as a coagulant; it helps to aggregate the tiny suspended particles, including colloids, allowing them to clump together. Once these particles aggregate into larger flocs, they can be more easily removed through sedimentation or filtration.

The effectiveness of aluminum sulfate as a coagulant is well-established in water treatment practices, making it a critical component in ensuring clean and safe drinking water. This ability to destabilize colloidal particles is crucial, as colloids can hinder the effectiveness of disinfection processes and lead to poor water quality if not adequately treated.