Which type of water treatment method focuses on removing particulates?

Sand filtration is primarily designed to remove particulates from water. This method involves passing water through layers of sand, which traps and retains larger suspended solids, debris, and other impurities present in the water. The effectiveness of sand filtration lies in its ability to capture a variety of particle sizes, making it a widely used practice in water treatment facilities.

Particulates often include particles such as silt, clay, and organic matter, which can contribute to water turbidity and affect its quality. By utilizing sand as a filtering medium, this process not only enhances the aesthetic quality of water but also prepares it for further treatment stages, such as disinfection or chemical treatment, ensuring compliance with health standards.

Membrane filtration, on the other hand, is more focused on retaining smaller particles and microorganisms using semi-permeable membranes. Chemical precipitation involves the addition of chemicals to cause dissolved substances to form solids, which can then settle out of the water, and disinfection targets microorganisms rather than particulates. Thus, while other methods have their unique applications in water treatment, sand filtration is specifically aimed at the effective removal of particulates.