Influence of bentonite on grinding, hydrocyclone and flotation performance

Abstract

The thesis examined bentonite’s impact on grinding, flotation, and hydrocyclone processes in mineral processing. Adding cations (Al³, Mg², K) improved grinding efficiency by reducing particle repulsion, with Al³ being the most effective. Bentonite increased slurry viscosity, reducing mineral recovery in initial flotation, while high Ca² levels further inhibited flotation. Hydrocyclone experiments showed bentonite concentration slightly affected radial velocity and particle size distribution but increased localized pressure losses and radial pressure.