A theoretical model of floc structure

Abstract A geometrical model of floc formation is developed using Smoluchowski's rate equation for perikinetic flocculation. Results are given to indicate that the model is in qualitative agreement with experimental findings of very porous sediments formed from fine flocculated material and that the model flocs resemble the tenuous aggregates frequently observed under an electron microscope. The limitations of the model which prevent a fully quantitative prediction of sediment volume are discussed.