Green hematite depression for reverse selective flotation separation from quartz by locust bean gum

Area of Science:

• Mineral Processing
• Green Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Reverse cationic flotation is key for fine hematite upgrading but uses hazardous chemicals.
• Sustainable development necessitates eco-friendly alternatives for mineral processing reagents.
• Locust bean gum (LBG) offers a biodegradable option for cleaner flotation processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate locust bean gum (LBG) as a biodegradable depressant for selective hematite-quartz separation.
• To evaluate LBG's effectiveness in reverse cationic flotation of fine hematite.
• To elucidate the adsorption mechanisms of LBG on mineral surfaces.

Main Methods:

• Micro and batch flotation tests were performed under various conditions.
• Surface adsorption, zeta potential, and contact angle measurements were utilized.
• Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy analyzed adsorption mechanisms.

Main Results:

• LBG selectively depressed hematite with minimal impact on quartz floatability.
• Enhanced separation efficiency was observed in mixed mineral flotation, with hematite recovery exceeding 88%.
• LBG adsorption on hematite, primarily via hydrogen bonding, reduced its work of adhesion, even with a collector present.

Conclusions:

• Locust bean gum is an effective and biodegradable depressant for selective hematite-quartz separation.
• LBG facilitates sustainable mineral processing by offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional reagents.
• The study demonstrates the potential of LBG in green mineral beneficiation through reverse cationic flotation.