OSSO, the specialist provider of fluid temperature control and separation solutions, has developed a first of its kind natural hybrid chemical for water treatment. Designed to replace the conventional use of metal or synthetic-based coagulants and flocculants, OSSO Hybrid C offers a naturally derived, single-chemical solution that is free from synthetic polymers and metal salts. The product has also been independently verified for non-toxicity in aquatic environments.
Credit: OSSO
Mohaned Aboshatta and Tristan Hughes
Dr Mohaned Aboshatta, Principal Environmental Scientist at OSSO, said: “This new solution has been built from the ground up as a single, naturally derived product that replaces the need for metal or synthetic based coagulants and flocculants. Chitosan is an incredible material with high binding efficiency and natural biodegradability. We’ve tested it across a wide range of waters, and it consistently outperforms conventional treatments. Third-party verification confirms its suitability within the aquatic environment. “This is real innovation that is effective and ready to use.”
OSSO Hybrid C is designed for use in sectors including construction, municipal and industrial water treatment where demand is growing for safer, simpler and more sustainable treatment options. In typical treatment processes, two separate chemicals are required: a coagulant and a flocculant. Coagulants are usually metal salts in acidic solution, such as ferric chloride or polyaluminium chloride, which are highly corrosive and carry environmental and health risks when handled or stored in large volumes. Flocculants, on the other hand, are often synthetic acrylic blends, including cationic types that can be particularly harmful to aquatic life. Both have been linked to long-term environmental and safety concerns and are increasingly coming under regulatory scrutiny.
The new hybrid solution replaces both functions with a single product. It is made from chitosan, a biodegradable polymer derived from chitin, the same natural compound found in shellfish and insects. In this formulation, chitosan acts as both coagulant and flocculant, eliminating the need for separate products. By removing the need for two separate products, it also offers a more cost-effective approach to treatment. It has shown exceptional performance in removing total suspended solids and heavy metals, outperforming conventional chemical combinations in side-by-side trials.
The independent testing confirmed there was no effect on daphnia, a highly sensitive organism predominantly used to assess chemical reagents and their suitability for introduction into aquatic environments. Unlike ferric, aluminium or acrylic-based products, it breaks down naturally and supports responsible discharge or reuse of treated water. Because it is significantly less corrosive than conventional metal-based coagulants, the product is also safer to handle and easier on infrastructure. It helps reduce wear on dosing systems and storage equipment, lowering maintenance needs and supporting longer asset life.
Tristan Hughes, Business Unit Manager at OSSO, added: “We've created a new chemical reagent here. A natural treatment chemical that delivers on performance, cost and sustainability. We’re already seeing interest from our customers and partners, because the solution is operationally effective, environmentally responsible, and easier to work with than traditional systems. By replacing two chemicals with one, it also offers a clear cost advantage. We look forward to working with regulators and the wider industry to see it deployed safely and at scale.”