Coagulation and Flocculation: Ferric Chloride is commonly used as a coagulant in the process of water clarification. When added to raw water, it reacts with dissolved impurities and suspended particles, causing them to clump together (flocculate) and form larger particles called flocs. These flocs can then be easily removed through sedimentation or filtration, resulting in clearer and cleaner water.

Phosphorus Removal: In wastewater treatment, Ferric Chloride is effective in precipitating phosphorus compounds from sewage and industrial effluents. Phosphorus removal is essential to prevent eutrophication (excessive algae growth) in receiving bodies of water and to meet regulatory discharge limits.

Heavy Metal Precipitation: Ferric Chloride can also be used to precipitate heavy metals, such as arsenic, lead, and mercury, from industrial wastewater streams. The formation of insoluble metal hydroxides facilitates their removal through filtration or settling, reducing the environmental impact of heavy metal contamination.

Odor Control: In addition to its coagulation properties, Ferric Chloride helps control objectionable odors in wastewater treatment plants by reducing the formation of hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S), which is responsible for foul odors commonly associated with sewage.