Colloidal-Hydrodynamic Theory of Flotation

Abstract

Recent advances in the field of colloidal-hydrodynamic flotation theory are reviewed. Factors limiting the flotation of particles of all size classes are analyzed. The role of surface and hydrodynamic forces in the elementary act of flotation is investigated, as is the dependency of efficiency of particle capture by a bubble on the energy of their collision and the rate of its dissipation. Kinetic aspects of the flotation process are examined with consideration of the phenomenon of aggregation of particles and coalescence of bubbles. A brief list is presented on the main problems in flotation theory and certain promising paths of development of flotation technology are suggested.

Keywords: Physical Chemistry > Colloid and Surface Chemistry, physchem/0103026