Particle Technology: Flotation

Front

What is flotation in mineral processing?

Back

A method of mineral processing where minerals are separated by creating froth on which they float, effectively separating them from other materials.

Front

What is the driving force behind flotation?

Back

The difference in surface chemical properties and wetting ability of the ore.

Front

What are the two main types of flotation?

Back

Ore flotation and microflotation.

Front

What is positive buoyancy?

Back

When the weight of the water displaced is greater than the weight of the object, causing it to float.

Front

What is negative buoyancy?

Back

When the weight of the object is greater than the weight of the liquid it displaces, causing it to sink.

Front

What is neutral buoyancy?

Back

When the weight of the object is equal to the weight of the liquid it displaces, allowing it to hover.

Front

What is Archimedes' Principle?

Back

An object in fluid is buoyed up by a force equal to the weight of the liquid displaced.

Front

What are the conditions for an object to float?

Back

1. Average density of the object must be less than that of the fluid. 2. Volume of the submerged object must be large enough to displace a significant amount of fluid. 3. Upthrust must be greater than the total weight of the object.

Front

What is true flotation?

Back

A process where minerals are selectively attached to froth.

Front

What is the role of collectors in flotation?

Back

Collectors are surface-active agents that render mineral surfaces hydrophobic, enhancing their attachment to air bubbles.