Application of magnetic susceptibility gradients to magnetic separation

Abstract

Particle separation in a magnetic colloidal fluid with a susceptibility gradient created by means of a Frantz-Isodynamic magnet is described. The positions where particles and fluid are in equilibrium are a function of the particle magnetic susceptibility only. This method allows magnetic separation of several materials with a wide range of magnetic susceptibilities in a single separator with multiple dividers. A model separator was constructed. The magnetic gradient of the Frantz magnet and the concentration gradient of the magnetic colloids were calibrated. Separations were carried out using fine particles of Mn2P2O7, CuO, and Al 2O3. The results confirm the feasibility of this method. The experimental data agree quite well with calculations based on the calibrated concentration gradient.