Preparation of a novel silica-polyvinylpyrrolidone hybrid regulator and its role in ultrafine low-rank coal flotation

Abstract

ABSTRACT In upgrading low-rank coal, various promoters have been employed with their fascinating abilities to alter the surface properties of particles. For decades, regulators have been proven as effective promotors in flotation. In recent years, coal flotation has benefited from the development of hybrid regulators. The interaction between coal and gangue particles can be regulated through the adjustable properties of hybrid regulators. However, when it comes to ultrafine low-rank coal (ULC), flotation becomes more difficult. The performance of micromolecule surfactants and oily collectors is not obvious when the grain size becomes finer and the coal rank becomes lower. The polymers and nanoparticles are valued for their performance. The emphasis of this study is on the preparation of silica-polyvinylpyrrolidone hybrid regulator (SiO2-PVP) and its role in low-rank coal flotation. The effect of the hybrid regulators on ULC is revealed by surface properties and chemical interactions. The contact angle, floc size, functional group, and surface topography of ULC were regulated by SiO2-PVP. The flotation response proved the benefits of SiO2-PVP to combustible recovery and clean coal. Thus, SiO2-PVP is a reliable hybrid promoter for ULC flotation. This study will be helpful to understand the effect of the polymer-nanoparticle regulator on low-rank coal flotation.