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Updated: Sep 11, 2025
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Asymmetrical Flow Field-Flow Fractionation for Sizing of Gold Nanoparticles in Suspension
Published on: September 11, 2020
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Energy-Efficient Gold Flotation via Coarse Particle Generation Using VSI and HPGR Comminution.
Sindhura Thatipamula1, Sheila Devasahayam1
1WA School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430, Australia.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 14, 2025
Summary
Vertical Shaft Impactors (VSI) and High-Pressure Grinding Rolls (HPGR) impact gold flotation differently. VSI offers superior energy efficiency and recovery, producing coarser particles ideal for sustainable mineral processing.
Area of Science:
- Mineral Processing
- Comminution Technologies
- Gold Flotation
Background:
- Increasing demand for energy efficiency and recovery in mineral processing.
- Limited comparative studies on comminution technologies' impact on gold flotation.
- Economic and environmental constraints driving innovation in mineral extraction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of Vertical Shaft Impactors (VSI) and High-Pressure Grinding Rolls (HPGR) on gold flotation performance.
- To evaluate energy consumption and recovery rates for different comminution methods.
- To analyze particle characteristics and their influence on flotation selectivity.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory-scale comminution experiments using Ballarat Gold Mine ore.
- Particle size analysis (300-600 µm) and characterization.
- Flotation tests using Potassium Amyl Xanthate (PAX) and DSP002 collectors.
- Measurement of flotation recovery, concentrate grade, and specific energy consumption.
Main Results:
- HPGR generated more fines and micro-cracks, increasing gangue entrainment and energy demand.
- VSI produced coarser, cubical particles with fewer slimes, leading to higher grades and recoveries.
- VSI at 600 µm achieved the highest flotation efficiency (4241) with low energy input (9.79 kWh/t).
Conclusions:
- VSI technology demonstrates superior performance in gold flotation compared to HPGR.
- Particle characteristics induced by comminution significantly affect flotation outcomes.
- Tailored comminution strategies are crucial for enhancing selectivity and sustainability in gold processing.
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