Effect of temperature on the kinetics of froth flotation

Abstract The kinetics of froth flotation and the three-phase contact (TPC) parameters are studied at temperatures varying from 20°C to 40°C. The material floated consists of glass spheres (ballotini) and quartz particles with various diameters. Dodecylamine hydrochloride (DDAHCl) as a collector is used. The equilibrium three-phase contact angle, surface tension of the DDAHCl solution and the expansion of the three-phase (TPC) perimeter are determined at different temperatures. The experimental data show an intensification of the flotation kinetics at 30 and 40°C in the case of small particles. Such an intensification is not observed with larger particles. The cause for intensificatioon of the floatation kinetics is sought for in the dependence of the TPC rate of expansion and the induction time on temperature.