Performance study of a novel modified alkylpolyglucoside towards the enhancement of apatite beneficiation

Formulators will often blend fatty acids together to achieve mineral hydrophobization and control the flotation kinetics. However, fatty acids are rarely used without the assistance of surfactants. Surfactants can contribute to performance stability in varying water conditions, build and control froth properties, and be the key to a successful beneficiation plant. A novel alkylpolyglucoside (Mod APG, Cola®Float 1500) type surfactant was developed and investigated on its enhancement of the flotation properties of a standard fatty acid collector with the goal of improving apatite grade/recovery from two mine sites, versus the more traditional Alkyl Sulfate surfactant. The mechanism leading to successful flotation was explored, and both chelation value and CMC were discovered to be important attributes in ensuring a balanced and successful process.