New insights into the interaction between low-rank coal particles and clay minerals and its role in flotation responses--颗粒学报PARTICUOLOGY

Wang, S., Wang, Y., & Kong, R. (2024). New insights into the interaction between low-rank coal particles and clay minerals and its role in flotation responses. Particuology, 94, 48-58. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.partic.2024.07.018

New insights into the interaction between low-rank coal particles and clay minerals and its role in flotation responses

Shiwei Wang^a *, Yuheng Wang^a, Rongjie Kong^b

a School of Mines and Mechanical Engineering, Liupanshui Normal University, Liupanshui, 553004, China
b College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622, China

10.1016/j.partic.2024.07.018

Volume 94, November 2024, Pages 48-58

Received 11 July 2024, Revised 19 July 2024, Accepted 24 July 2024, Available online 7 August 2024, Version of Record 10 August 2024.

E-mail: wangshiwei@cumt.edu.cn

Highlights

• Higher dosage of quartz and chlorite enters low-rank coal concentrate froth.

• Flotation performances of low-rank coal is heavily suppressed by montmorillonite particles.

• Polar surface interaction energy plays a critical role in low-rank coal and clay particles interaction.

• Flotation performances of low-rank coal are highly dependent on the clay type.

Abstract

This study investigates the adverse effects of fine clay minerals on low-rank coal (LRC) flotation. Zeta potential analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, flotation experiments, and the particle-bubble attachment index (PBAI) were employed to assess these effects. Results indicate that quartz and chlorite particles are more prevalent in the flotation concentrate than kaolinite and montmorillonite, likely due to their preferential adsorption of flotation collectors, which inhibits the hydrophobicity of the LRC surface. Montmorillonite, however, exhibits greater adhesion to LRC surfaces due to its positive charge. Extended DLVO theoretical analysis reveals that polar surface interaction energy is a primary driving force in coal-mineral interactions and is crucial in overcoming the energy barrier posed by electrostatic double-layer forces. The impact of clay minerals on LRC flotation is highly dependent on clay type.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Low-rank coal; Quartz; Kaolinite; Montmorillonite; Chlorite; Extended DLVO

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