Effects of physical and physico-chemical factors on pulp rheology of smithsonite

Pulp rheology is an important factor affecting flotation. The effects of particle size (150-74 μm, 74-38 38-23μm, -23 μm), pulp density (11.76%-34.78%), pH (5.3-12.4), collector concentration (25-500 mg/dm3), and stirring intensity (400-900 rpm) on the smithsonite, kaolinite, quartz, calcite minerals were investigated in detail. Additionally, agglomerate morphology particles was observed by a polarizing microscope. results showed that as mineral decreased increased, apparent viscosity yield stress increased. Especially fine (-23 μm) presented higher stress. order for from large to small was: kaolinite>calcite>smithsonite>quartz under different values, concentrations, intensities. In presence octadecylamine, could form aggregates, especially smithsonite obvious agglomeration with compact network structure. effect kaolinite weaker than smithsonite. resulted increase pulp. Quartz did not clusters，hence pulp’s lowest. research changes rheological properties will hopefully provide some guidance future