Influence of frothers on the detachment of galena particles from bubbles

This study aims to investigate the effect of frother type and concentration on the detachment of galena particles during the coalescence of a bubble pair. An experimental technique was used that allows the interaction between two individual air bubbles and measurement of particles that leave the surface as a result of the merging process. Two different frother types, OrePrep® F-549 a mixture of polyglycols and methyl isobutyl carbinol (MIBC), were used in the study. The results showed that the presence of frothers has a significant effect on the number of hydrophobic particles detaching from the surface of the oscillating bubble. In general, it was found that there is a linear correlation between the percentage of particles leaving the surface and the frother concentration. The F-549 frother was found to be more effective compared to MIBC, as it provided more damping to the oscillating bubble. It was also observed that the presence of particles on the bubble significantly damped the oscillation, resulting in less adhering particles to drop off the bubble surface. A force analysis was conducted to establish a possible link between the detachment forces that arose from the bubble oscillation and frother concentration.

► Detachment of galena particles from coalescing bubbles was studied.
► Frothers have a significant effect on the particles detaching from the bubble.
► The F-549 frother is more effective compared to MIBC.
► There is a critical detachment force at which particle detachment decreases.