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The liquid flow force on a particle in the bubble-particle interaction in flotation
Anh V Nguyen1, Geoffrey M Evans
1Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia. cgavn@alinga.newcastle.edu.au
Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
|November 18, 2005
Summary
This study presents equations for liquid flow force between particles and air bubbles in flotation. These models improve calculations for closely interacting particles and bubbles, crucial for mineral separation.
Area of Science:
- Colloid and Surface Science
- Fluid Dynamics
- Mineral Processing
Background:
- Accurate calculation of forces in particle-bubble interactions is essential for flotation efficiency.
- Existing models may not fully capture the complex fluid dynamics at close separations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To derive and present equations for the liquid flow force acting on a particle near an air bubble.
- To model this force as a function of separation distance, considering bubble surface mobility.
Main Methods:
- Derived a force equation by analyzing the disturbed fluid flow confined between the particle and bubble surfaces.
- Incorporated parameters such as separation distance, particle size, bubble Reynolds number, rise velocity, and particle position.
Main Results:
- Developed equations providing an exact solution for scenarios where the particle and bubble are in close proximity.
- Demonstrated that attractive flow forces and surface forces are of comparable magnitude in these conditions.
Conclusions:
- The proposed models offer improved estimations for forces in particle-bubble interactions during mineral flotation.
- These findings are applicable to various separation operations involving colloidal interactions and mobile interfaces.