Kinetics of flotation of organic matter in Cerrejón coals (Guajira) using a flotation column

Abstract

This work shows the kinetic constants of three bituminous coals of Cerrejón (Guajira), M1, M2 and M3. A flotation column at laboratory scale (5 m high and 5 cm in diameter) at normal pH (7.2) was used as flotation reagents, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate 28% (w/w) as a frother with a concentration of 15.4 lb/t of coal and creosote oil as a collector with a concentration of 10 lb/t of coal was used, using different sample collection times  (five  floated  samples  were  taken  every  45  s,  for  a  total  of  3.75  min). The  results  showed  first-order kinetics  constant  for  the  recovery  of  combustible  material. The  results  showed  first-order  kinetics  constant for combustible recovery material. The kinetic constants calculated are in the range of 0126 - 0255 min-1, M3 sample showed the highest values. The combustible recovery material are in the range of 42 - 61%, M3 sample coal showed greater recovery of combustible material. In general, ash reductions were obtained between 71 and 91%, indicating that the operating conditions used in the process and the ash release was favorable.