Key Characteristics

Particle Size: The gravel typically comes in various sizes ranging from small to medium-sized particles. The sizes are crucial because they determine how effectively the gravel can filter out different contaminants. It is important for the gravel to have a well-defined gradation (distribution of particle sizes) to provide proper filtration.

Shape and Texture: The particles of Ganga gravel are usually round or angular in shape, depending on their source and the river's water flow. Round-shaped gravel provides better flow through the media, while angular gravel offers more surface area for filtration.

Porosity: Ganga gravel has a high level of porosity, which allows water to pass through while capturing suspended solids and other particles. This is one of the reasons it's used as a filter medium in both drinking water and wastewater filtration systems.

Chemical Composition: Ganga gravel is mainly composed of silica, quartz, and other minerals that are chemically inert and do not react with most substances in water, making it an ideal choice for filtration purposes.

Applications as a Filter Media

Water Treatment: Ganga gravel is widely used in slow sand filters and rapid sand filters for drinking water purification. It helps to remove suspended solids, large particles, and debris from raw water, improving water quality.

Aquarium Filtration: The gravel is also commonly used in aquarium filters as a medium for both mechanical and biological filtration. It provides a surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonise, helping to break down organic matter and maintain water clarity.

Wastewater Treatment: Ganga gravel can be used in septic tank filters and other wastewater treatment systems to aid in removing contaminants from wastewater before it is discharged into the environment.

Industrial Filtration: In industrial settings, Ganga gravel can be used in pool filters and other systems requiring effective filtration of water or liquids.

Benefits

Effective Filtration: Ganga gravel’s gradation and high porosity make it excellent at removing particulate matter and improving water quality.

Durability: The gravel is resistant to weathering, corrosion, and chemical degradation, ensuring long-lasting performance in filtration applications.

Natural Material: As a natural material, Ganga gravel is environmentally friendly and widely available in regions near the Ganges River.

Maintenance

Backwashing: For systems using Ganga gravel, periodic backwashing is required to remove accumulated dirt and debris, especially in water treatment plants and aquariums.