Zeta-potential and flotability of the scheelite mineral in different type of waters, Part 2: Flotability

Abstract

The aim of this work was to study floatability of the mineral sheelite from mine 'Rudnik', central Serbia. Flotation tests of the mineral in a Hallimond tube cell were carried out in four different types of water, namely: tap water, distilled water, rain water and spring water. All types of water had different hardness and conductivity as well as natural pH values. It was found that the flotability of mineral scheelite depends on the hardness and electro-conductivity of the chosen type of water as well as on Ca2+ content. Also, it was found the floatability of mineral depends on the scheelite particle size fraction used in microflotation experiments. Presented results may be useful for proper selection of type of water, as well of the type of reagents used in flotation processes.