Discharging a high-energy spark underwater creates a shock wave that dissipates through an acoustic field. Colloidal acrylate polymers suspended in water containing dissolved calcium are agglomerated as a result. The degree of agglomeration increases with the number of sparks applied and with increasing calcium content. The calcium decreases the charge on the colloidal particles and thereby increases their propensity to be agglomerated by the acoustic wave. These observations are confirmed in full-scale trials in paper recycling mills where sparking improves the efficiency of centrifugal cleaners by increasing the particle size of the contaminants. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.