Dissolved Air Flotation and Diffused Air Flotation (both referred to as DAF), are water treatment processes that clarify wastewater by removing suspended matter such as oils and solids. Fine gas bubbles (usually from compressed air) are introduced into the liquid. The bubbles attach to the particulate matter and float them to the surface to form a froth. Chemical flotation aids are often used to enhance the DAF process.
The Diffused Air / Dissolved Air Flotation Test Apparatus (DADAFTA) simulates the DAF process on a small scale. The DADAFTA can be used to measure the floatability of a particular sludge when designing treatment plants and to evaluate chemical flotation aids.