One of the foundational chemical treatment processes is coagulation and flocculation. In this method, chemicals known as coagulants are added to the water to destabilize suspended particles. Common coagulants include aluminum sulfate (alum) and ferric chloride. These chemicals cause small particles to clump together into larger aggregates, or flocs, which can then be removed from the water through sedimentation or filtration. This process significantly improves water clarity and is often used as a preliminary step in drinking water treatment.
Moreover, global supply chains for APIs have become increasingly intricate, often spanning multiple countries. This globalization has prompted manufacturers to rethink their production strategies. Countries with established pharmaceutical hubs, such as India and China, have emerged as dominant players in API production due to their cost-effective labor and established infrastructure. However, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in these supply chains, prompting many companies to reconsider their reliance on single-source suppliers and to explore local manufacturing options. This shift underscores the need for flexibility and resilience in API manufacturing to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical tensions and health crises.