Froth stabilisation using nanoparticles in mineral flotation

In this study, three kinds of nanoparticles (SiO2, Fe2O3, and Al2O3) were used in the flotation of a sulphide ore to investigate the effects of nanoparticles on the froth stability and the flotation performance. The dynamic froth stability factor and the maximum froth depth were measured by using a non-overflowing flotation cell under various flotation conditions. The results were also related to the separation selectivity and efficiency of the flotation. The experimental results showed that the dynamic froth stability factor and the maximum froth depth can be increased 1.2-2 fold by using the Al2O3 nanoparticles. These increments led to significant improve in the froth recovery. In terms of the froth stability and the flotation performance, the Al2O3 nanomaterial was the best, followed by Fe2O3 and SiO2. In addition, the flotation recovery increased from 83 to 91%, and the grade of the concentrate increased from 44 to 60% by using the Al2O3 nanoparticles.