Analysis of the Effect of Surfactants on the Performance of Apatite Column Flotation

Abstract

Given that particle and bubble size, as well as their surface properties, are pivotal in froth flotation, surfactants have been extensively employed due to their impact on bubble size and froth stabilization. This study aimed to investigate the influence of surfactants on the performance of apatite flotation in column. Three different categories of surfactants were examined: anionic, amphoteric, and nonionic, specifically Lupromin, Genagen, and Triton X-100, respectively. The critical coalescence concentration (CCC) and surface tension of each surfactant were determined. The impact of these surfactants on reducing bubble size was quantified, and their subsequent effects on apatite flotation in a column were assessed. The most favorable flotation response for Genagen was achieved at CCC and pH 11, resulting in the highest apatite recovery and the smallest bubble size. For Triton X-100, the best condition was attained at ¼ CCC and pH 11. However, overall, Lupromin was the surfactant that yielded the best flotation results (at ¼ CCC and pH 11). The superior performance of this anionic surfactant was corroborated by chemical adsorption results, as demonstrated by FTIR analyses.