Coarse particle flotation: A review

Abstract

This review highlights the benefits and applications of coarse particle flotation, the challenges associated with coarse particles during the flotation process, and recent developments in improving coarse particle flotation. Recovering particles at a large size through flotation has numerous applications, including early gangue rejection, tail scavenging, and roughing tasks. It offers several benefits in terms of technical, economic, and sustainability aspects. However, it is not without its challenges. These challenges involve the detachment of particles due to turbulence, the transfer of coarse particles from the pulp phase to the froth phase, and the persistence of coarse particles in the froth phase. Recent technological advancements have shown promising results in efficiently recovering particles much larger than those traditionally targeted in the flotation process. Fluidized-bed flotation technology is particularly effective in achieving high coarse particle recovery. The development of processes aimed at enhancing bubble-particle attachment has also shown improvements in coarse particle recovery.