Justifying size-by-size flotation rate distributions from size-by-association kinetic responses

Abstract A size-by-association kinetic characterization for galena-chalcopyrite flotation is presented. The size-by-size maximum recovery R∞ and flotation rate distribution f(k) are first estimated by least-squares estimation (LSE) in four size classes. Gamma f(k)s are assumed in all cases. LSE is also used in the association categories subject to constraints to match/approach the size-by-size R∞-f(k)s pairs from the association classes. The methodology allows the size-by-size f(k)s to be explained from the size-by-association f(k)s. These size-by-association f(k)s do not converge to deterministic rate constants, which agree with the effect of other particle properties on the flotation response. The f(k)s in the −20 μm class are approximately 80–85% justified by liberated particles. These particles explain the fast-floating material in all size classes. Binary and complex middlings typically concentrate to slower flotation rates. From the f(k) results, slow-rate fractions are estimated from a low f(k) percentile. These fractions are not consistently attributed to complex middlings.