METHOD OF SEPARATING SOLIDS BY SIMULTANEOUS COMMINUTION AND AGGLOMERATION

摘要

A process is provided for the separation of a solid into its constituent lyophobic and lyophilic components by comminution and agglomeration in liquids to which the two components are respectively lyophobic and lyophilic. The process has particular application in coal beneficiation wherein ash particles are liberated into a water phase and coal particles are agglomerated with oil. The operations of comminuting and agglomerating are combined in a single step by performing the process in a mill having positive transport capability.