Journal - 8

NAME OF THE CANDIDATE : Lalithakumari

NAME;OF THE SPECIALTY : Mtech .
Article : Rapid and clean dewatering of dredged sediment via coupling of a two-step flocculation and geotextile filtration
Aim :
The aim of study involves:
1. Two-Step Flocculation:
 First Step: Chemical addition to the dredged sediment is performed in the first step. Flocculants are added
to the sediment to encourage the aggregation of fine particles into larger flocs. Common flocculants include
polymers or coagulants, which help bind the particles together.
 Second Step: After the initial flocculation, a second chemical treatment may be applied to further enhance
the aggregation and settling of the flocs. This step ensures the formation of larger and denser flocs for more
effective water-sediment separation.
2. Geotextile Filtration:
 Geotextiles are permeable fabrics that can effectively filter water while allowing the passage of treated
sediment. The use of geotextiles as a filtration medium helps to capture the flocculated sediment, allowing
water to drain through while retaining the solid particles.
 The choice of geotextile material and its properties (pore size, thickness) should be tailored to the specific
characteristics of the dredged sediment to optimize filtration efficiency.
3. Dewatering Basin or Containment Area:
 The treated sediment is then directed to a dewatering basin or containment area where the geotextile
filtration process occurs. This basin allows for the controlled separation of water from the sediment.
Objective:
The objective is to calculate:
1. Environmental Impact Mitigation:
 Minimize the environmental impact of dredging activities by employing clean and sustainable dewatering
techniques. This involves using environmentally friendly flocculants and ensuring that the geotextile
filtration process effectively captures and retains sediment particles without releasing harmful substances.
2. Optimized Geotextile Filtration:
 Tailor the geotextile filtration system to the specific characteristics of the dredged sediment. This includes
selecting the appropriate geotextile material, designing the filtration system with the right pore size, and
ensuring proper installation for maximum efficiency.
3. Operational Speed and Cost-Effectiveness:
 Achieve rapid dewatering to improve the overall efficiency of dredging operations. Minimize downtime and
operational costs by streamlining the two-step flocculation and geotextile filtration process.
Variables:
The variables are:
1. Sediment Characteristics:
 Particle Size Distribution: The range of particle sizes in the dredged sediment affects the selection of
flocculants and the design of the geotextile filtration system.
 Density and Concentration: The initial density and concentration of sediment impact the required dosage of
flocculants and the efficiency of flocculation.
 Composition and Contaminants: The type and amount of contaminants in the sediment influence the choice
of flocculants and the environmental considerations during disposal.
2. Flocculation Process:
 Flocculent Type and Dosage: The type and amount of flocculants added in the two-step flocculation process
affect the size and density of flocs formed, influencing sediment settling.
 Mixing Intensity and Duration: The energy applied during mixing and the duration of the flocculation process
impact the effectiveness of floc formation.
3. Geotextile Filtration:
 Geotextile Material and Properties: The choice of geotextile material, including its permeability, thickness,
and pore size, determines its filtration efficiency and ability to retain sediment particles.
 Installation and Configuration: Proper installation and configuration of the geotextile system ensure optimal
performance in capturing and retaining sediment.
4. Dewatering Basin Design:
 Geometry and Slope: The design of the dewatering basin influences the settling of sediment and the
drainage of water. The slope should facilitate gravity drainage.
  Capacity and Sizing: The size and capacity of the dewatering basin should be sufficient to accommodate the
dredged sediment volume.

Observation:
The observed characteristics are:
1. Flocculation Stage:
 Floc Formation: Observe the formation of flocs during the two-step flocculation process. Larger and denser
flocs are desirable for efficient sediment settling.
 Mixing Efficiency: Assess the efficiency of mixing in terms of achieving uniform distribution of flocculants and
promoting thorough interaction with sediment particles.
2. Geotextile Filtration:
 Filtration Rate: Monitor the rate at which water passes through the geotextile. A steady and controlled
filtration rate indicates proper functioning.
 Geotextile Performance: Check for any signs of clogging or damage to the geotextile material. Ensure that it
effectively retains sediment particles without compromising permeability.
3. Sediment Settling in Dewatering Basin:
 Settling Efficiency: Evaluate how effectively sediment settles in the dewatering basin. Rapid settling
contributes to the overall speed of the dewatering process.
 Clarity of Overflow Water: Assess the clarity of water draining from the dewatering basin. Clear water
indicates successful separation of sediment from water.
Figures :

Conclusion:
The study concluded that:
1. Efficiency and Speed:
 The two-step flocculation process promotes the rapid formation of large and dense flocs, facilitating quicker
sediment settling.
 Geotextile filtration enhances the efficiency of water-sediment separation, allowing for a speedy dewatering
process.
2. Environmental Stewardship:
 The use of environmentally friendly flocculants and the careful selection of geotextile materials contribute
to minimizing the environmental impact of dredging activities.
 Compliance with disposal regulations and the prevention of erosion and re-suspension underscore the
commitment to environmental stewardship.
3. Economic Feasibility:
 Consideration of operational costs, including flocculant usage and geotextile material, contributes to the
economic feasibility of the dewatering approach.
 Minimizing downtime and optimizing operational efficiency enhance cost-effectiveness.
4. Sediment Management:
 The dewatered sediment, with reduced moisture content, becomes more manageable for disposal or
potential reuse for beneficial purposes such as land reclamation or construction.