Settling characteristics of coal preparation plant fine tailings using anionic polymers

The objective of solid-liquid separation in thickeners in coal preparation plants is to obtain both a clear supernatant liquid with a low turbidity for reuse and a dense slurry. It is important for the smooth operation of the plant to produce good-quality recirculation water. In this study, settling characteristics of coal tailings (d80=70 μm) taken from the thickener feed of Derekoy Coal Preparation Plant (Manisa, Turkey) were investigated with the use of anionic polymers. In the tests we determined the effects of the process parameters including polymer type, polymer dosage, temperature, suspension pH, and pulp density on the flocculation of the fine tailings of the coal preparation operation. Minefloc anionic polymer showed a better flocculation performance in comparison with other polymers. An optimum settling rate of 300 mm/min was reached at a dosage of 30 g/t-solids, a pulp density of 5%, pH 7.9, and temperature 25 °C using Minefloc polymer.