What occurs in the contact zone of a dissolved-air flotation basin?

In the contact zone of a dissolved-air flotation basin, super-saturated oxygen is introduced, leading to the formation of micro-bubbles that attach to suspended particles. This process is critical because it enhances the flotation of these particles to the surface of the water, facilitating their removal. The micro-bubbles reduce the density of the particles, allowing them to rise more easily. This is a key mechanism in water treatment, particularly for the removal of contaminants and improving overall water quality.

The introduction of super-saturated oxygen is essential here, as it creates the micro-bubbles necessary for effective flotation. The buoyancy created by these bubbles is what allows particles to rise to the surface, where they can be skimmed off for further treatment or disposal. This technique is widely utilized in wastewater treatment systems to achieve efficient separation of solids from liquids, thus improving the clarity and quality of the water being treated.