Investigation of feldspar flocculation characteristics using anionic, cationic and non-ionic flocculants in single and two-step flocculation systems

Abstract

This study investigates the flocculation behaviour of feldspar suspension using a variety of anionic, cationic, and non-ionic flocculants (A.336, A.338, A.1011, A.5250, A.110, A.120, A.1858, C.573, N.333 and N.351) in single and two-step flocculation systems. Experiments have been performed at various dosages ranging from 0.2 to 12.5 mg/L. Flocculation performance is evaluated based on turbidity, settling rate, and efficiency. Of the flocculants tested, non-ionic flocculant N.351 demonstrated the most effective flocculation performance in terms of both turbidity reduction and flocculation efficiency. N.351 achieved a flocculation efficiency of 98.5% at a dosage of 0.8 mg/L, achieving the lowest turbidity value of 6.4 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Unit). Although N.351 demonstrated turbidity reduction and flocculation efficiency, the highest settling rates are observed in the two-step system employing the cationic-anionic flocculation combinations of C.573-A.338 and C.573-A.1011. These combinations achieved the highest settling rate of 2700 mm/min at dosages of 8.5 mg/L and 12.5 mg/L, respectively. This experimental study demonstrates that optimum flocculant dosages can vary significantly depending on the type of flocculant, the combination used, and the performance parameters. These results provide valuable information to optimize feldspar flocculation in industrial applications, which could improve process efficiency and product quality in feldspar using industries.