Before discussing coagulation methods, the concept of total dissolved solid (TDS) must be introduced.
This measurement is revealed by running a current through a water sample. The higher the resistance, the more pure the water is.
More conductive water has a higher content of minerals, salts and organic matter contained in the water. The reading is expressed in PPM or parts per million other than the H20 molecules.
The total dissolved solids concentration is the total cations (positively charged) and anions (negatively charged) ions in the water.
Running TDS test provides a qualitative measure of the amount of dissolved ions but does not tell us nature or ion relationships.
Coagulation and flocculation takes out impurities using metal flakes. Since most metal is dissolved by ionized water, this purification method cannot be applied because it will increase water contamination.
Sedimentation for waits for floaties to sink. Since dissolved solids cannot separate from the water by definition. A high PPM reading will remain stable.
Mechanically forced sedimentation or the use of a centrifuge may work, but issues arise when finalizing the separation process. The higher concentration will remix upon pouring or extraction with a pump.
Source:
https://theberkey.com/blogs/water-filter/what-is-the-acceptable-total-dissolved-solids-tds-level-in-drinking-water
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