Flotace

Flotace, also known as flotation, is a physico-chemical separation process used extensively in various industries, particularly in mining and wastewater treatment. The core principle relies on the differences in the surface properties of particles, specifically their hydrophobicity. In a flotation cell, air bubbles are introduced into a slurry containing the mixture of particles to be separated. Hydrophobic particles, which repel water, readily attach themselves to the air bubbles. These bubble-particle aggregates, being less dense than the surrounding liquid, rise to the surface and form a froth. This froth, rich in the desired hydrophobic material, can then be skimmed off.

The process involves several key stages. Conditioning is often employed to modify the surface properties of the particles using chemical reagents such as collectors, frothers, and modifiers. Collectors enhance the hydrophobicity of the target minerals, allowing them to attach to air bubbles. Frothers stabilize the bubbles, preventing them from coalescing too quickly and ensuring a stable froth layer. Modifiers, such as activators or depressants, are used to selectively activate or inhibit the flotation of certain minerals, thereby increasing separation efficiency. Aeration is then introduced to generate the fine air bubbles necessary for attachment. Finally, collection involves the removal of the froth containing the concentrated valuable minerals. Flotation is a versatile technique, with applications ranging from the concentration of valuable ores like copper, gold, and coal to the purification of wastewater by removing suspended solids and oils.