Investigation of the frother effect in two and three phases systems on bubble size, surface tension, recovery and grade in chalcopyrite flotation

In this study, the effect of frother was investigated in two and three phases in the systems of the flotation. While the two-phase system consisted of liquid and gas, the three-phase systems contained a chalcopyrite ore. The study of three-phase systems was performed with the ore on a laboratory and plant scale. Effect of the amount and type of the frothers, their mixtures, and pH were examined depending on the bubble size, grade of the concentrate, and the recovery of chalcopyrite flotation. The results showed that as the amount of frothers increased, there was a reduction in the bubble size in all experiments. Additionally, the frother mixtures gave a positive effect on the chalcopyrite flotation. One of the most important purposes of flotation frothers shrinks the air bubble. As can be understood from the tests this time reduction of the frothers bubble size has a positive effect on the flotation. Likewise, it increases the foam stable value. It is observed from this study that increasing the amount of frothers decreases the surface tension and bubble size at different pH.