Question

Write a short note on the Froth floatation process.

Answer 1

As we know that froth flotation method is a type of technique used for selectively separation of hydrophobic materials from a hydrophilic substance. This process is mainly used in mineral processing, paper recycling and also in waste water treatment industries in order to use pure water for the next cycle.

Complete answer:
Let us discuss about froth floatation method as follows:-
-Froth floatation process: This is one of the most popular techniques used for mineral beneficiation or extraction. By the help of this method, important minerals are separated from impurities by collecting them just on the surface of a froth layer which is economically and commercially convenient. It is generally used for sulphide ores which contain multiple metals such as lead, copper and zinc.
-The principle of froth floatation process is the difference in the wetting ability of the ore, important metals and other impurities. Depending on this factor we can separate hydrophobic materials from a hydrophilic substance easily.
-In order to maintain uniform quality of froth and also optimize the adhesive quality of the minerals at the same time, various chemicals are required to be mixed in the slurry that are given below:-
Frother: These are commonly referred to as froth stabilizers because these are used to stabilize the froth during this process. Few examples of frothers used in this process are aniline, cresols, etc.
Collector: These enhance the non-wettability of the mineral particles for better selectivity. Few examples are xanthates, pine oils, fatty acids, etc.
Activator: These are the reagents that activate the mineral surface towards the action of the collectors and it is mainly achieved by enhancing their chemical properties.
Depressant: These are the reagents that deactivate the mineral surface towards the action of the collectors and this is done by enhancing their chemical properties.

Note:
-Remember that hydrophobic substances are those which do not attract water molecules due to which they are not miscible in water whereas hydrophilic substances are those which readily attract water molecules.
-Also learn and understand various processes in the metallurgy chapter which are used in the extraction of important metals and minerals.