Flocculation /(?)/

Floc·cu·la·tion

Flocculation

n.
  1. The process by which small particles of fine soils and sediments aggregate into larger lumps. (Geol.)
  2. The process or event in which masses of a solid substance of perceptible size form in a liquid by aggregation of smaller particles, and usually sediment to the bottom of the containing vessel; as, addition of a cationic polymer can cause flocculation of a negatively charged colloidal suspension.