Question

What is froth floatation process?

Answer 1

Froth flotation process:

1. Used to concentrate ores where ore particles are wetted by oil and impurities by water (e.g., sulphide ores).
2. Finely powdered ore is mixed with water to form slurry.
3. Frothing agent (pine or eucalyptus oil) and collector (ethyl xanthate) are added.
4. Air is bubbled through slurry; ore particles attach to air bubbles.
5. Froth (with ore particles) rises and is removed, leaving impurities in water.
6. Froth is washed to get concentrated ore.