Composition and method for improvement in froth flotation

摘要

The invention provides methods and compositions for improving a froth flotation type separation. The method uses a thickener to improve the effectiveness of an emulsifier. The improvement allows for low dosages of emulsifier to work well so the emulsifier does not cancel out the effectiveness of other additives in the slurry such as collectors, frothing agents, regulators, depressors, deactivators, and/or activators.

主权项

1. A method of froth flotation separation, the method comprising:
making an emulsion by adding an emulsifier, a thickener, and a liquid medium to a collector; making a first slurry by blending a slurry medium and fines, the fines comprising concentrate mixed with tailings; adding the emulsion to the first slurry to make a second slurry; and removing the concentrate from the second slurry by sparging the second slurry, wherein the thickener and emulsifier are added to the collector in an amount such that the collector does not flocculate, and wherein the emulsifier is added to the collector in an amount so as not to completely surround droplets formed by the collector but in an amount sufficient to disperse the collector in the second slurry.