Mining and Mineral Processing Applications

Many of the applications of colloid and interface science to the mining and mineral processing industry can be found in the hydrotransport, flotation, and tailings processes. Although suspensions feature prominently in each of these, a range of emulsions, foams and suspensions can be found in this industry. Some examples are given in Table 10.1. 

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UHMWPE possesses a unique combination of mechanical and technological properties and enjoys a variety of special applications based on low friction (solid lubricant), wear resistance (protection of metal surfaces), excellent chemical stability, as well as radiation and neutron resistance. UHMWPE is used in chemical processing, food and beverage industries, foundries, the lumber industry the electrical industry, as medical implants and in mining and mineral processing sewage treatment, and transportation. 

Typical applications for this type of conveyor are in the heavy duty areas of mining or minerals processing or power generation. Their simple geometry and robust nature make them ideal for handling materials such as hot cement, clinker and ash or wet mineral ores, coal and grain. Construction materials may be malleable iron or hardened steel for heavier duties. 

A very important but rather complex application of surface chemistry is to the separation of various types of solid particles from each other by what is known as flotation. The general method is of enormous importance to the mining industry it permits large-scale and economic processing of crushed ores whereby the desired mineral is separated from the gangue or non-mineral-containing material. Originally applied only to certain sulfide and oxide ores. 

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