Use of biosolids as froth reagent in flotation process: Chemical and physical characterization

Abstract

Froth flotation uses various organic and inorganic reagents to increase performance and selectivity of the flotation process.
Froth flotation takes place mediated by tensioactive substances that are adsorbed on the air/water interface. Potential substitutes for the currently used frothers, organic wastes of animal origin, like biosolids are found. This study was to evaluate biosolids and humic acids as
foaming agents in froth fl otation by quantifi cation of their tensioactive capabilities, foamforming
potential and foam stability. Biosolids was able to change the surface tension of a solution, creating and stabilizing foams. Dosages under 4 g L-1 of flotation reagents showed a better tensioactive effect using biosolids instead of conventional flotation reagents, type MIBC. For an effective use of these substances as frothers, it is recommended to consider a preconditioning stage. That stage will permit separating soluble and colloidal fractions that show a tensioactive effect. Further research will be needed in order to scaleup current laboratory assays to operational mining scales.