Cu(II) Recovery from Aqueous Systems by Flotation

Abstract

Ionmolecular and colloidal inorganic particles representing both pollutants and sources of useful substances require the separation from aqueous systems by modern techniques that also permit their removal and recovery. Ion flotation and precipitate flotation are considered as separation methods with wide application, especially for the small concentration ranges of noxious components, indicating high environmental and economical performances. The present paper presents the results of a research study concerning Cu(II) recovery from aqueous model systems by the precipitate flotation method, dissolved air flotation (DAF), with an anionic-type collector C18H33O2Na—sodium oleate (NaOL). The separation mechanism by the collector–Cu(II) interaction at optimum conditions was studied. A comparison of chemical analysis results with electronic and vibration spectra and thermal analysis for isolated species was also made. The results of the experimental data plead for the Cu(II) recovery separation from aqueous systems and its recovery as oxide after thermal decomposition of the species contained in the foam.