Reverse froth flotation of magnesite ore by using (12-4-12) cationic gemini surfactant

The cationic gemini surfactant 1,4-bis(dodecyl-N,N-dimethylammoniumbromide)butane (BDDAB) was tested as a possible collector in the reverse froth flotation of magnesite ore. This novel type of collector was compared with its conventional monomeric equivalents: primary dodecylamine (DA) and tertiary dimethyldodecylamine (DDA). Electrokinetic measurements documented a strong effect of the synthesized gemini surfactant on the zeta potential of quartz. The effect of the three collectors declined in the following order: BDDAB > DA > DDA. Laboratory froth flotation tests confirmed an improved collecting ability of the gemini surfactant compared to both the conventional collectors. The desilication efficiency declined in the following order: BDDAB > DA > DDA. The results obtained with the lowest concentration of the gemini surfactant were better in terms of SiO2 content than those obtained with four times higher dosages of the conventional collectors.