Evaluation of novel RAFT block copolymers as alternatives to amine collectors

Abstract

This study introduced and flagged the potential of novel RAFT (reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer) block copolymers as controllable and tunable collectors to circumvent the main drawbacks associated with amine collectors such as high foaming propensities and generating overly stable froths during froth flotation. A series of RAFT copolymers was evaluated to derive important insights into their abilities to control foamability and foam stability while maintaining high surface hydrophobization. The functional and structural design of the new RAFT copolymers included a hydrophilic block of poly dimethylaminoethyl acrylate quaternised with methyl iodide (PDMAEAI+) which induced a cationic effect, while altering the hydrophobic structure of poly n-butyl acrylate (PBA) determined the degree of surface hydrophobicity engendered on the targeted quartz surface. It was found that the specific number of the incorporated PBA functional groups largely governed the corresponding solubilities and the associated molecular interfacial activity of the copolymers relative to controlling their foaming abilities and surface hydrophobization. As a proof of concept, this study attests that these RAFT copolymers are promising in replacing amine collectors in reverse quartz flotation.