ENGI 9628

Environmental Laboratory
Winter 2023-2024
Supervised by: Dr. Noori Saady

Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science

Lab #5
Jar Test

Date of Submission: 7-March-24

Group Number: 10
Group Members
Name of Student Student ID Number
Abdelhameed Sadoon 202396184
Hirenkumar Vipulbhai Rangani 202291532
Kopila Rajbanshi 202381335
Mohmed Sadik 202386791
Mrinmoyee Sarkar 202387821
Nikita Raut 202386287

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 INDEX

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................. 3

OBJECTIVE .................................................................................................................................. 3
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 4
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND OF CHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND ............................... 4
APPLICATIONS TO ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING PRACTICES .............................. 5
APPARATUS .................................................................................................................................. 5
CHEMICALS:................................................................................................................................ 6
PROCEDURE ................................................................................................................................ 6
DATA ANALYSIS ........................................................................................................................... 7
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: ..................................................................................................11
REFERENCE: ............................................................................................................................. 13
APPENDIX .................................................................................................................................. 14

List of Figure

Figure 1: Diagram of jar testing device .......................................................................................... 4

Figure 2 :Turbidity against Aluminum Concentration Graph ......................................................... 8

List of Table
Table 1:Concentration of coagulants .............................................................................................. 7
Table 2:Values acquired with the Nephelometer for the Turbidity Unit ......................................... 7

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In laboratory settings, jar tests are conducted to select and assess treatment protocols designed to
eliminate suspended particles and oils from raw water, diluted process streams, and wastewater.
This method is instrumental in determining the optimal dosage of coagulants, pH levels, mixing
intensity, and settling time. The process involves refining chemical quantities and sequences,
evaluating flocculation agents, and considering pH levels to achieve the desired floc size. The jar
test plays a crucial role in environmental engineering by refining the doses of coagulants and
flocculants to improve particle removal efficiency. This, in turn, facilitates informed adjustments
and technological advancements in water treatment practices.

In this study, aluminum sulfate serves as the coagulant, while the turbidity and particle density of
a water sample are assessed using the jar test in conjunction with a nephelometer. Different
volumes ranging from 0 to 20 ml of a 20 g/l aluminum sulfate solution are added to beakers
containing the specified water sample. The mixture is thoroughly stirred and swirled for one
minute at 100 rpm, followed by twenty minutes at a speed ranging from 25 to 35 rpm.
Subsequently, the mixture is allowed to settle for thirty minutes.

The experiment employs a nephelometer to gauge turbidity, accompanied by detailed equipment

specifications and theoretical background. Analysis of the data reveals that the optimal
concentration range for the coagulant falls between 8 to 12 mg/L of aluminum sulfate.

Jar testing emerges as a pivotal procedure in the planning, construction, and maintenance of water
treatment systems, ensuring the implementation of efficient and environmentally friendly water
treatment methods. It is imperative that this sample achieves complete turbidity removal to
guarantee a clear output within the specified concentration range of aluminum sulfate.

OBJECTIVE
The jar test in water treatment aims to determine the best operational conditions by adjusting
factors like coagulant dosage, pH levels, and mixing speeds on a small scale. It simulates
coagulation and flocculation processes to predict performance in larger treatment operations. The
goal is efficient removal of suspended particles and organic matter to address issues such as
turbidity, odor, and taste in water.

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INTRODUCTION
The jar test is a commonly utilized laboratory method utilized for optimizing the treatment of water
or wastewater. It enables adjustments to pH levels, coagulant or polymer doses, mixing speeds,
and the testing of different types of coagulants or polymers on a small scale. This allows for the
prediction of larger-scale treatment process effectiveness. Essentially, the jar test simulates
coagulation and flocculation processes, assisting in the removal of suspended colloids and organic
substances that could lead to turbidity, unpleasant odors, and taste problems.

Figure 1: Diagram of jar testing device

Jar testing entails adjusting the quantity and sequence of treatment chemicals added to samples of
untreated water contained in jars or beakers. These samples are then agitated to observe the
formation, growth, and settling of floc, replicating the process in a full-scale treatment facility.
(Floc forms when treatment chemicals react with substances in the untreated water, causing them
to cluster together.) The operator conducts a series of experiments to compare the effects of
different amounts of flocculation agents at various pH levels, aiming to identify the optimal floc
size for a specific facility. (Determining the ideal floc size involves considerations such as the
dimensions of the system's filters and other pertinent factors.)(SATTERFIELD 2009. Tech Brief -
Jar Testing.Pdf, n.d.).

THEORETICAL BACKGROUND OF CHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND

The Jar Test is a crucial laboratory procedure performed on a pilot scale to determine the best
operational conditions, such as the appropriate coagulant dosage, mixing rate, pH level, and
settling duration. Usually, four or six-place stirrers, similar to those used in clarifiers, are utilized
to assist in creating the desired mixing and settling conditions during jar testing.

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This approach is vital for identifying the exact dosage of treatment chemicals needed, particularly
the minimum amount necessary for effectively treating water with efficient settling. In the jar test,
different coagulant dosages are applied to known water samples, which are then mixed
simultaneously for a predetermined duration of quick mixing.

After coagulation, the resulting micro-flocs undergo flocculation and are given adequate time to
settle. Following this, a "Nephelometer" is used to measure the turbidity of the samples, and the
dosage that results in the lowest turbidity is considered optimal.

APPLICATIONS TO ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING PRACTICES

The Jar Test holds significant importance in environmental engineering, offering numerous
applications. It enhances treatment processes by identifying optimal chemical treatments and
dosages, thereby improving plant performance and cost efficiency by avoiding excessive chemical
usage. Moreover, it verifies product compatibility and assists in designing treatment facilities by
offering insights into coagulation processes and water quality parameters. Overall, the Jar Test is
instrumental in ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of water and wastewater treatment
practices.

Nephelometer

Turbidity, a critical parameter in assessing water quality, is measured using a nephelometer, also
referred to as an aerosol photometer. The turbidity level in a liquid or gas colloid is directly related
to the concentration of suspended particles within it.

A nephelometer functions by emitting a light beam, known as the source beam, and placing a light
detector on one side of the source. The intensity of light detected corresponds to the density of
particles that reflect into the detector. Additionally, the characteristics of these particles, such as
their shape, color, and reflectivity, impact their density

The standard unit for quantifying turbidity is the nephelometric turbidity unit (NTU).

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APPARATUS
• Containers
• Flocculation Stirrer (Six-Place Stirrer)
• Pipettes
• Nephelometer

CHEMICALS:
• Water Sample
• Coagulant

PROCEDURE
• Fill the jar testing apparatus containers with sample water. One container will be used as a
control while the other 5 containers can be adjusted depending on what conditions are being
tested. For example, the pH of the jars can be adjusted or variations of coagulant dosages
can be added to determine optimum operating conditions.
• Add the coagulant to each container and stir at approximately 100 rpm for 1 minute. The
rapid mix stage helps to disperse the coagulant throughout each container. Coagulants are
chemical additions, such as metallic salts, which help cause smaller aggregates to form
larger particles.
• Reduce the stirring speed to 25 to 35 rpm and continue mixing for 15 to 20 minutes. This
slower mixing speed helps promote floc formation by enhancing particle collisions which
lead to larger flocs. These speeds are slow enough to prevent sheering of the floc due to
turbulence caused by stirring to fast.
• Turn off the mixers and allow the containers to settle for 30 to 45 minutes. Then measure
the final turbidity in each container. The final turbidity can be evaluated roughly by sight
or more accurately using a nephelometer

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DATA ANALYSIS
• Each test jar received 500 ml of wastewater to conduct this experiment. Additionally, coagulant
concentration that has been predetermined was used; Table 1 provides specifics.

Jar Coagulant concentration (mg/L)

1 0
2 4
3 8
4 12
5 16
6 20

Table 1:Concentration of coagulants

• Each of the six samples had turbidity evaluated using a nephelometer after the test. The results
are displayed in Table 2.

Coagulant concentration Turbidity unit

Jar
(mg/L) obtained (NTU)
1 0 112.5
2 4 4.5
3 8 2.5
4 12 2.8
5 16 4.1
6 20 3.35

Table 2:Values acquired with the Nephelometer for the Turbidity Unit

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• Plotting the turbidity data versus the coagulant concentration occurs after getting the results in
below Graph.

Note: Sample 1's turbidity value is utilized as a control point, so it was not plotted.

Coagulant dose Vs Turbidity

5

4.5 4.5

4 4.1
Turbidity unit obtained (NTU)

3.5
3.35
3
2.8
2.5
2.5

2
Optimun Point
1.5

0.5

0
0 5 10 15 20 25

Figure 2 :Turbidity against Aluminum Concentration Graph

The graph displayed does not align with the anticipated trend, yet the optimal concentration of
coagulant falls between 8 mg/L and just under 12 mg/L, as per theoretical expectations. Further
elucidation will be provided in the findings and discussion section. Higher turbidity values
correspond to an increased presence of suspended particles in the water, whereas lower values
indicate fewer suspended particles. Notably, the water sample exhibiting the lowest turbidity
reading (8 mg/L of aluminum sulphate) should theoretically be the cleanest among all samples, as

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it is expected to contain the most settled particles. At this concentration, a significant portion of
the silt coagulated effectively and settled at the base of the beaker.

Coagulant: Aluminum sulphate

Initial Concentration of Coagulant: 20 g/L concentration

𝒈
𝐐𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭 (𝐦𝐥) × 𝑰𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑪𝒐𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒕 ( )
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐧 = 𝒍
𝐐𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 (𝐦𝐥)

Initial
Coagulant Concentration
Concentration 𝐐𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞
Jar No. concentration of Coagulant
of Coagulant (𝐦𝐥)
(ml) (g/L)
(ml)
2 4 20 500 0.16
3 8 20 500 0.32
4 12 20 500 0.48
5 16 20 500 0.64
6 20 20 500 0.8

• What are the four factors in the jar test?

Ans.
The jar test is a laboratory technique used to find the best dosage of coagulants and flocculants for
water treatment. Four key factors influence the jar test results:
1. Type and Amount of Coagulant or Flocculant:
• Different chemicals like alum, ferric chloride, and polymers are used to treat water.
• The right dosage is crucial; too little won't be effective, while too much can be
costly and may harm water quality.
2. Mixing Speed and Time:
• Mixing speed and duration affect how well coagulants or flocculants disperse in the
water and interact with particles.

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 • Proper mixing ensures particles come together to form larger flocs for easier
removal.
3. pH Level:
• pH is critical for coagulants to work effectively.
• Each coagulant has an optimal pH range; adjusting the water's pH can enhance
treatment efficiency.
4. Water Sample Characteristics:
• Turbidity, organic content, and particle type influence treatment effectiveness.
• Understanding these characteristics helps choose the right chemicals and optimize
treatment conditions.
By carefully considering and adjusting these factors during the jar test, water treatment
professionals can determine the most efficient and cost-effective treatment methods for various
water sources.

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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

The experiment conducted involved testing different coagulant concentrations in wastewater

samples to evaluate turbidity levels. The results indicated a non-linear relationship between
coagulant concentration and turbidity, deviating from the expected trend. Despite this, the optimal
coagulant concentration for turbidity reduction was found to be between 8 mg/L and just under 12
mg/L, aligning with theoretical expectations. Higher turbidity values signify more suspended
particles in water, while lower values indicate fewer suspended particles. Notably, the sample with
the lowest turbidity reading (8 mg/L of aluminum sulphate) theoretically should be the cleanest,
with a significant portion of settled particles.
The study on coagulants highlights the effectiveness of polyaluminum chloride (PACl) in
removing turbidity, with higher doses leading to increased coagulation efficiency. Coagulation
involves mixing a chemical coagulant with water to neutralize charged particles and form
microflocs that aid in particle removal. Optimal dosages of coagulants are crucial for effective
flocculation and turbidity removal, with overdosing or underdosing leading to poor performance.
The study emphasizes the importance of precise control over coagulant dosage to ensure efficient
water treatment processes.
Furthermore, research on natural coagulants like plant leaves demonstrates their potential for
sustainable turbidity removal. Different plant species at varying concentrations showed significant
turbidity removal rates, indicating the viability of natural coagulants as eco-friendly alternatives.
The study underscores the importance of exploring cost-effective and environmentally friendly
water purification techniques to address health and environmental concerns associated with
traditional chemical coagulants.
In conclusion, optimizing coagulant dosages, understanding the mechanisms of coagulation-
flocculation processes, and exploring sustainable alternatives like natural coagulants are essential
steps towards efficient and environmentally friendly water treatment practices.

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what changes we can see in result if we put different size and different shape of container in
jar jest?

Ans.

1. Settling Efficiency: Containers with different shapes and sizes can influence the settling
efficiency of the coagulated particles. For instance, taller containers might allow for better
settling due to increased settling distance, while wider containers may facilitate faster
settling due to greater surface area.

2. Mixing Dynamics: The shape and size of the container can impact the mixing dynamics
during the jar test. Different containers may induce varying levels of turbulence, affecting
the distribution of the coagulant and the particles in the water.

3. Particle Distribution: Containers with different shapes and sizes can lead to differences
in particle distribution throughout the water sample. Certain shapes may promote better
dispersion of the coagulant, resulting in more uniform particle distribution, while others
may cause uneven distribution.

4. Contact Time: The contact time between the coagulant and the suspended particles can
vary based on the container size and shape. Containers with larger surface areas or different
geometries may alter the contact time, influencing the effectiveness of coagulation and
settling.

5. Observation of Settled Particles: Depending on the container size and shape, the
observation of settled particles may vary. Different containers may allow for better
visibility and easier examination of settled particles, impacting the accuracy of result
interpretation.

In summary, introducing containers of different sizes and shapes into the jar test can lead to various
changes in the results, affecting settling efficiency, mixing dynamics, particle distribution, contact
time, and the observation of settled particles. These factors should be considered when conducting
and interpreting jar test results for water treatment processes.

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REFERENCE:
“Application of Turbidity Meters for the Quantitative Analysis of Flocculation in a Jar Test
Apparatus”(https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273510088_Application_of_Turbidity_Met
ers_for_the_Quantitative_Analysis_of_Flocculation_in_a_Jar_Test_Apparatus)

“Jar test’ Retrieve on march 7th,2024(https://www.coursehero.com/sitemap/schools/3018-

Memorial-University-of-Newfoundland/courses/10840087-ENGI9628/)

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APPENDIX

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