A successful Jar Test is very reliant upon the proper preparation of the polymers being tested. Dilution technique ("make down") is especially critical, since it involves compactly coiled large molecules in emulsions, prior to activation. The polymer must be uncoiled to provide maximum contact with the colloidal particles to be flocculated. If the following procedures are not followed, the Jar Test results will be very unreliable.

Required equipment:

1. 250 mL bottles with lids.
2. High speed hand mixer (for emulsion polymers).
3. Syringes (1cc, 5cc, 10cc).
4. 250 and 500 mL beakers.
5. Water (it is recommended that the makedown water from the plant be used).
6. Graduated cylinder (100 mL).

Emulsion polymers (Prepare 1.0% solution.)

1. Add 198 mL of water to a beaker.
2. Insert Braun mixer into water and begin mixing.
3. Using a syringe, inject 2 mL of neat polymer into vortex.
4. Mix for 20 seconds. Do not exceed 20 seconds!
5. Allow dilute polymer to age for at least 20 minutes, but preferably overnight.

Prepare 0.1% solution.

1. Add 180 mL of water to 250 mL bottle.
2. Add 20 mL of 1.0% polymer solution.
3. Shake vigorously for at least one minute.

Solution polymers and Inorganics (Prepare a 1.0% solution.)

1. Add 198 mL of water to 250 mL bottle.
2. Using a syringe, add 2 mL of neat product to bottle.
3. Shake vigorously for at least 1 minute.
4. Prepare 0.1% solution.
5. Add 180 mL to 250 mL bottle.
6. Add 20 mL of 1 % solution.
7. Shake vigorously for at least one minute.