The effects of coagulation pH and influent turbidity on aluminum and ferric hydroxide sludge macro-and micro-properties were investigated. To reduce the number of variables, sludges were produced under specific operating conditions in a 400 L/day continuous-flow pilot-plant. The effluent turbidity was monitored to evaluate process modifications. Sludge thickening and dewatering characteristics improved with reductions in the coagulation pH, increases in the influent turbidity levels, and/or reductions in the coagulant dose/influent turbidity ratio. Sludge floc/ aggregate density was the dominant sludge micro-property; sludges with superior thickening and dewatering characteristics were composed of higher density flocs/aggregates. A trade-off appeared to exist between improved sludge characteristics and effluent quality; however, verification will require additional research. / M.S.