A Review on the Separation of Nanoparticles by Froth Flotation

Abstract

Froth flotation is an effective method for separating fine solid particles from aqueous solutions based on surface properties. The most important phenomenon in this issue is the formation of solid-gas bubble accumulation. Appropriate selection of operating conditions such as size, shape, charge and hydrophobicity of nanoparticles, concentration, pH solution, flow rate and gas velocity, bubble size and flotation reagents such as surfactants for hydrophobicizing particles is essential to increase absorption by gas bubbles and collect them in the froth. In this article, an attempt has been made to examine the potential and limitations of the process of flotation of nanoparticles and their separation from solutions, or the use of nanoparticles as collectors, reinforcements and stabilizers of the froth, and the existing challenges and solutions to overcome them should be explained. According to the progress made in the field of equipment and reagents used, the flotation method could be a promising method to remove, separate, recover and purify nanoparticles from the solution.

Keywords

• purification
• separation
• flotation
• surfactant
• nanoparticles