Producing flocs with desired properties is significant for contaminants removal in water treatment works. In this study, an inorganic composite coagulant, polyaluminum ferric chloride (PAFC), was prepared and used in surface water treatment, and the influence of Al/Fe molar ratio and basicity (B) on floc properties was investigated. The contribution of metal species analysis showed a competition relationship between Al and Fe in the pre-hydrolysis, while the monomeric contents decreased with the increase of B value. The investigation of floc properties was conducted on a laser scattering instrument, in terms of floc size, strength, recovery capacity and fractal dimension (D-f). The largest floc size and the highest growth rate was achieved when Al/Fe = 7:1 and B = 1.5. Floc formed at the Al/Fe ratios of 5:1 and 7:1 were considered to be more compact. Meanwhile, the Df value increased when B value was increased. At Al/Fe - 7:1 and B = 1.5, strongest flocs were obtained. During the breakage period, the D-f value increased. As lower shear was replaced, the floc size decreased continuously, with a further increase of D-f value. However, after breakage at higher shear, all of the PAFC flocs showed capacity for regrowth and loose structures were formed. (C) 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.