Effects of ferrate (VI) preoxidation on the architecture of algae cells and the mechanism of enhanced coagulation

The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the ultraviolet spectro\|photometer were used to measure the impact of ferrate (Ⅵ) preoxidation on the architecture of algae cells and the release of soluble organic matters from the cells.The results showed that ferrate (Ⅵ) preoxidation induced a number of clearly discernible effects on cell architecture,and caused severe damage of cell layer.An excessive release of intracellular components into the surrounding media was also observed,which might be caused by ferrate stimulation or cleaved sheath by the oxidation.These secreted biopolymers behave as a coagulant aid in coagulation process.Fe(OH)\-3 colloids derived from the decomposition of ferrate (Ⅵ) may precipitate on the surface of algae cells and thus decrease the stability of algae cells.