The limits of fine particle flotation

Understanding the limits of fine particle flotation is the key to the selective separation of fine mineral particles. Fine particles have low collision efficiencies with gas bubbles and float slowly. There has been a great deal of work aimed at overcoming the inefficient collision of small particles with rising air bubbles. This review deals with the influence of bubble size, particle aggregation, different flow conditions, particle induction time, as well as the action of surface and capillary forces on fine particle-bubble capture. Recommendations for practice are given. Crown Copyright (C) 2009 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.